Ambank Pivots to SMEs Amid Margin Squeeze | Malaysia Daily Financial News Digest 29th Jul 25

In today’s episode, we unpack Malaysia’s shifting corporate strategies, the government’s latest policy pivots, and key global developments—from trade truces to rising commodity risks. We explore what these shifts mean for Malaysia’s economic resilience, investment climate, and your wallet.

🏢 Malaysian Company & Market News
🔹 Ambank Targets SMEs for Growth
With interest rate cuts squeezing margins, Ambank pivots to SME lending to find healthier returns. Meanwhile, CIMB sees slower loan growth—signs of rising business caution.

🔹 MMC Port Plans Landmark IPO
Set to raise over US$1.5B, MMC Port is preparing Malaysia’s biggest listing since 2012, drawing global interest and boosting investor confidence in infrastructure.

🔹 Insas Enters ICT via Microlink
Strategic move into digital transformation with a major stake in Microlink Solutions, aiming for recurring tech income.

🔹 Apex Healthcare Sale on the Table
The founding family may sell its stake, potentially to a foreign buyer—signaling generational or strategic shifts.

🔹 Ireka’s RM1.07B Contract Terminated
Massive Pan Borneo Highway deal scrapped over funding issues. A reminder of infrastructure project risks.

🔹 CTOS & Pharmaniaga Face Headwinds
CTOS issues a guidance downgrade, while Pharmaniaga works to recover from PN17 status with help from the Jakel Group.

🔹 Tenaga’s Tax Trouble Grows
Facing up to RM8B in additional tax assessments, even Malaysia’s power giant is under fiscal scrutiny.

🛣️ Infrastructure & Development
🔹 Johor Bahru’s RM7B Transit Race
Three consortia compete to build the JBRT—critical for boosting cross-border ties with Singapore and unlocking SEZ investments.

📊 Economy & Policy Updates
🔹 BNM Revises Growth to 4.0–4.8%
Still backed by strong domestic demand, the slight GDP downgrade reflects global headwinds, not internal weakness.

🔹 Foreign Worker Permit Changes
Bestinet now exclusively handles ePass. Permit levies could rise RM300–500, raising operating costs for employers.

🔹 Vape Crackdown Coming
Ministry of Health proposes full ban on open-system vape products over safety concerns.

🔹 Wages Up, But Gaps Persist
Median monthly wage hits RM3,000, showing progress—but income inequality remains a central challenge.

🔹 Palm Oil Outlook Brightens
Despite India’s import tax hike, Malaysian palm oil exports expected to rebound in H2 2025.

🌍 Global & Trade Developments
🔹 US–EU Strike 15% Tariff Deal
A major trade war averted—for now. Eases investor nerves and global supply chain worries.

🔹 US–China: Truce Extension in Play
Talks continue, with hopes for a Trump–Xi summit. Meanwhile, China’s industrial profits drop amid price wars.

🔹 Investors Exit US Treasuries
Shifting into corporate debt amid US fiscal concerns—a subtle but notable change in global capital flows.

🔹 Copper & Oil Prices Edge Higher
Commodities respond to tariff timelines and OPEC+ production plans. Consumers may see relief at the pump.

🔹 Haze Risk Looms Over Southeast Asia
Forest fires tied to high commodity prices, particularly palm oil, raise alarms for environmental and public health.

📌 Key Takeaways & Investor Insights
✅ Banks pivot to SMEs, seeking margin stability post-rate cuts.
✅ MMC Port’s IPO could reawaken Malaysia’s capital markets.
✅ SEZ and transit investments in Johor could be major long-term growth catalysts.
✅ Global trade truces are easing tensions—but risks remain.
✅ Environmental costs of commodity booms can't be ignored.

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Видео Ambank Pivots to SMEs Amid Margin Squeeze | Malaysia Daily Financial News Digest 29th Jul 25 канала Malaysia Money Matters