ERIKA JOHNSON
Boustead Plantations expects continued volatility in palm oil prices
Boustead Plantations Bhd expects continued volatility in palm oil prices for the remainder of the year. High production costs from increased minimum wages, fertilizer, and diesel prices will impact profitability. The company remains optimistic about cost management and crop enhancement strategies for 2022.
Ambank Aids SMEs Via Strategic Partnership With PUMM
AmBank has formed a strategic two-year partnership with Persatuan Usahawan Maju Malaysian (PUMM) to enhance financial awareness and provide financing solutions for small and medium enterprises. The collaboration aims to empower over 3,000 business owners from various sectors by offering specialized banking products and tools.
Hong Kong once again ranked as world’s freest economy
Hong Kong's government celebrates its continued recognition as the world's freest economy by the Fraser Institute. The annual report highlights the territory's top ranking in "Freedom to Trade Internationally" and commitment to maintaining an efficient, open market environment.
Bursa Malaysia snaps losing streak, ringgit weakens to 4.5028
Bursa Malaysia concluded Wednesday's trading session with a slight upward movement, gaining 3.08 points to close at 1,491.35. The local market saw mixed performance with more losing stocks than gainers, while the Malaysian ringgit weakened to its lowest point against the US dollar since 1998, trading at 4.5028.
SK Hynix to invest US$11bil in new South Korea chip plant
SK Hynix will invest 15 trillion won ($10.9 billion) to build a new semiconductor facility called M15X in Cheongju, south of Seoul. Construction begins in October 2023 and is expected to complete in early 2025, expanding the company's memory chip manufacturing capabilities.
Indonesia hikes fuel prices by 30%, cuts energy subsidies
Indonesia dramatically increased fuel prices by 30%, with Pertalite gasoline rising from 51 to 67 cents per liter and diesel from 35 to 46 cents. Long lines formed at gas stations as citizens rushed to purchase cheaper fuel before the price hike took effect.
EcoWorld in end-financing tie-up with Public Bank
EcoWorld Development Group has signed an MoU with Public Bank to provide special end-financing packages for green-certified properties. The Green 5Home and Green Swift Plans offer preferential pricing and fast approvals for residential and non-residential projects, supporting sustainability efforts.
Malaysia attracts RM123.3 billion worth of approved investments for Jan-June 2022...
Malaysia saw RM123.3 billion in approved investments from January to June 2022, with foreign direct investments contributing 70.9% and the services sector leading at 63.3%. The investments are expected to create 57,771 job opportunities across manufacturing, services, and primary sectors.
Finland, Sweden move ahead toward possible NATO membership
Finland and Sweden are moving closer to NATO membership following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. With growing public support, both countries are reviewing their traditionally non-aligned military stance, potentially reshaping regional security dynamics.
Biden waiving the ethanol rule in a bid to lower gasoline...
- President Biden visits Iowa to announce waiving ethanol blending restrictions, aiming to reduce gasoline prices by around 10 cents per gallon. This move is part of his strategy to combat inflation, which reached 8.5% in March, the highest rate since 1981.- EXCERPT: Condensed 100-word summary providing context and key information