Ringgit opens firmer against US$, Asian currencies

KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit opened higher against the US dollar and ASEAN currencies, lifted by positive sentiments ahead of the announcement of Malaysia’s inflation rate for June this Wednesday. At 8 am, the ringgit rose to 4.6815/6910 against the greenback from last Friday’s close of 4.6840/6875. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid...

Malaysia’s inflation remains at 1.8% in April

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's inflation remained at 1.8% for the third consecutive month in April, led higher by price increases in restaurant and accommodation services. The rate of increase was lower than the median forecast of 1.9% in a Reuters poll of economists. In a statement, the National Department of Statistics said the country's core inflation in April...

Govt planning mechanism to manage cost of living, tame inflation, says Rafizi

PUTRAJAYA: The government is planning a mechanism to manage the cost of living and tame the country’s inflation, says Rafizi Ramli. The Economy Minister said the discussion on wages, cost of living and inflation has to be managed carefully. "In the past, some quarters, every time we talk about pushing for higher wages, they will always give...

Bitcoin interest in Argentina hits 20-month high as inflation soars above 270%

As Argentina’s inflation climbs, Bitcoin gains popularity over fiat currencies, driving increased crypto purchases and scam activity. In Argentina, where inflation has surged to staggering levels, Bitcoin is emerging as a preferred hedge against economic instability, Bloomberg reports, citing data compiled by a local crypto exchange Lemon Cash. Lemon Cash’s data reveals a significant uptick in Bitcoin transactions, nearing their highest...

DOSM estimates 3.4% growth in Malaysian economy in 4Q23

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's economy is estimated to grow at 3.4 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2023 (4Q 2023), representing a slight uptick from the previous quarter's growth of 3.3 per cent, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DoSM). Chief statistician Datuk Seri Mohd Uzir Mahidin said notably, the services sector retained its position...

Moderate growth forecast for sector

PETALING JAYA: The good old days of the property market, when banks were eager to lend and buyers snapped up properties within minutes after launch, are unlikely to return – especially not in the next few years. “The euphoria of the 2011 market upcycle is long gone. Yes, the sentiment has improved in recent times, but...