NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

• MGB appoints Lim Hock San as group executive chairman
• Sunview in talks for renewable energy projects in Cambodia
• Econframe buys industrial property builder for RM56 mil in construction foray
• George Kent expands to Vietnam with new water meter assembly plant
• Tien Wah inks Vietnam JVco deal

MACRO BITS

• Artificial intelligence will affect almost 40.0% of jobs, IMF says
• China, Switzerland sign declaration with view to expanding trade
• Anwar: Govt seeking formula to boost governance of approved, import permits
• Malaysia's ambassador strives to boost broader cooperation with Indonesia
• Vietnam-Malaysia to forge stronger defence, security ties after golden anniversary — envoy
• Exports and imports contracted in December on subdued demand
• (See Economic Viewpoint: Indonesia External Trade)
• PBOC maintains key rate at 2.5% in policy surprise
• China growth seen slowing to 4.6% in 2024, raising heat on policymakers
• Thai central bank says rate cuts not a quick fix for sluggish economy
• Singapore home sales fall to 15-year low as market cools
• US Congress unveils temporary spending bill to avert shutdown
• ECB’s Holzmann warns rate cuts aren’t guaranteed this year
• ECB’s Nagel says rate cuts can ‘maybe’ wait for the summer break
• EU watches for Red Sea attacks’ economic impact, Gentiloni says IDEAS OF THE DAY (SEE SEPARATE REPORTS FOR DETAILS)
• Company Update: QL
• Economic Viewpoint: ID Trade

Source: Kenanga Research - 16 Jan 2024