KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit started the day nearly flat against the United States dollar today, as cautious sentiments surrounding the current economic outlook saw some investors turning to safe-haven assets, according to an economist.

At 8 am, the local currency stood at 4.4250/4315 against the US dollar, compared to yesterday's close of 4.4250/4300.

Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said local currency markets will continue to trade cautiously ahead of the release of the United States' consumer price index report tonight.