Sharp, essential news and analysis from Malaysia.
Malaysia's ringgit is positioned to strengthen next week following the release of better-than-expected second-quarter GDP data showing 6% growth, driven by resilient domestic demand and robust export performance.
Financial markets face a busy August with scrutiny on yen weakness, US inflation data, and emerging talks between Iran and Oman over the Strait of Hormuz. Central banks across the globe prepare rate decisions amid mixed economic signals.
The US dollar has climbed to its highest level in nearly four decades against the Japanese yen, reaching above 163 yen despite warnings from Tokyo that it stands ready to intervene in currency markets.
The ringgit opened Friday trading stronger against regional currencies but faltered against the US dollar as investors grew cautious over fresh American import tariffs. Economists expect the local currency to remain volatile within RM4.08–RM4.10 against the greenback.