(Bursa) The Best and Worst IPOs in 2023!

The year 2023 has been a particularly noteworthy one for IPOs, with a plethora of new stocks hitting the local stock exchange. As we approach the end of the year, it is only natural to wonder how these new IPO stocks have performed.

Have they lived up to the hype and expectations, or have they fallen short? Read here... 📑📑📑

Sneak Peek ~ 118 Mall ~ with multi-storey Raincloud?

Still fancy about The Exchange TRX? Go ahead (for another few more months). You might be going to fancy about the next mall ~ 118 Mall 😍

Previously known as MERDEKA @ 118, the upcoming 118 Mall is a 7-storey glass domed shopping mall currently under construction located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The mall is currently being developed and owned by PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), which is also the developer for the Merdeka 118 tower. The mall is situated at the foot of the tower and will directly serve its precinct.

What is so special about 118 Mall? (Sneak peek here 👀) 

👇👇👇

Are you ready to claim your RM100 eMADANI credit and extra freebies?

Last week, PMX Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the eMadani e-wallet registration will begin on Dec 4 (Monday). The initiative is set to benefit 10 million eligible adults under both the B40 and M40 groups to receive a one-off e-wallet credit worth RM100.

It aims to encourage cashless transactions among the rakyat and at the same time, ease their financial burden. A total of 4 e-wallet providers will be a part of the initiative namely

1. Mae by Maybank2u,
2. Setel,
3. ShopeePay, and
4. Touch‘nGo eWallet

Who is eligible for RM100 eMADANI?

GXBank ~ Three Perks that would Excite You!

Welcome to the world of digital banking in Malaysia, where convenience, innovation, and efficiency meet to provide a seamless banking experience. 👍

As technology continues to advance rapidly, the financial industry has not been left behind. This game-changing development in the banking sector is set to revolutionize the traditional ways of banking and introduce a new era of financial services.

Introducing, GXBank!

Being the first digital bank to go live in Malaysia, GXBank is here to help with that first step towards achieving this. Unlock your full financial potential with a GX Account today!

We come across THREE Perks that would excite you!

FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (December 2023) Review: Dialog and Westport are OUT

FTSE Russell and Bursa Malaysia Berhad (“Bursa Malaysia”) today announced two constituent changes to the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI, following the semi-annual review of the FTSE Bursa Malaysia Index Series. The index series is reviewed semi-annually in accordance with the index ground rules.

The FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI, which is part of the FTSE Bursa Malaysia Index Series, is widely used by investors as the primary benchmark for the Malaysian capital market, including the derivatives market, through the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI Futures (“FKLI”) and the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI Options (“OKLI”) products. The benchmark index is also tracked by several index-linked financial products, such as exchange-traded funds.

Changes to the FTSE Bursa Malaysia Index Series semi-annual review for December 2023 are as follows:

The popular "POPULAR" Bookstore Chain was SOLD?

In the ever-evolving landscape of the retail industry, it is not uncommon for established businesses to face difficult decisions and changes.

Recently, rumors (until there is an official announcement from the company itself) have been circulating about the potential sale of one of the largest bookstore chains in the country.

I believe that the majority of us would have heard about this popular brand ~ POPULAR Bookstore.

Sold for How Much? 💰💰💰

PNB + EPF + KWAP = RM2billion Kulim II High-tech Industrial Asset

In a joint statement today, it stated that three of the largest asset managers in the country have come together to co-invest in a deal worth a total of RM2 billion.

Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), the Employees Provident Fund Board (EPF), and Kumpulan Wang Persaraan (Diperbadankan) [KWAP] (collectively known as co-investors) have signed a sale and leaseback transaction agreement valued at RM2 billion with OSRAM Opto Semiconductors Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned domestic subsidiary of Austria-based, ams OSRAM AG, a leader in intelligent sensors and emitters.

What's the deal?

Maybank's Secure2u activation can be done via ATM only?

Are you a Maybank customer? If yes, you should have a read here. 👀

Please be informed that starting 31 October 2023, all first-time Secure2u activation and activation on new devices will require activation via Maybank ATM in line with Bank Negara Malaysia’s latest security measures.

Kindly refer to the section below to find out the latest steps to register and activate your Secure2u. 👇👇👇

Budget 2024: Four Key Highlights related to our EPF Account

From the statement, the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) is pleased that the Budget 2024, announced by YAB Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim on 13 October 2023, prominently addresses some of the concerns the EPF had raised on the long-term financial well-being of Malaysians.

EPF Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said, “Budget 2024 reflects an important step forward in prioritising the financial security and prosperity of Malaysia’s aging population.

With a concerted effort to strengthen our resources and retirement allocations, this Budget highlights the Unity Government’s commitment to ensuring the dignity and comfort of its citizens.

Four Key highlights of Budget 2024 related to EPF:

Budget 2024: Winners and Losers

In the face of global uncertainties, the slightly expansionary Budget 2024 attempts to balance economic growth, fiscal discipline, sustainability and the rakyat’s well-being.

However, most analysts are largely “neutral” about the effect on the local equity market. We have compiled some of the very brief summaries from various analysts' reports for your quick reference here.

Budget 2024: Six Things That Caught My Attention :)

Malaysian Prime Minister and Finance Minister tabled his first full budget themed “Economic Reforms, Empowering the People” on 13 October 2023. In the face of global uncertainties, the slightly expansionary Budget 2024 attempts to balance economic growth, fiscal discipline, sustainability, and the rakyat’s wellbeing.

The key takeaway from the 2024 budget announcement made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is the continuity and follow-through from other recent policy statements: the Ekonomi Madani, NETR, NIMP2030, and mid-term review of the 12MP.

However, the below 6 things caught my attention from various reports. And, it will be good to highlight to all of my beloved readers here:

A Game Changer SuperApp from DNeX?

Dagang NeXchange Berhad (DNeX) via its wholly-owned subsidiary Dagang Net Technologies Sdn Bhd (Dagang Net) has launched TradeSwift DAGANGNET, an all-in-one trade facilitation SuperApp.

The SuperApp is a proprietary innovation by DNeX and represents a significant step forward in digital trade solutions.

With TradeSwift DAGANGNET, manufacturers, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), importers and exporters, shipping and forwarding agents, and freight forwarders can enjoy the convenience and efficiency to perform multiple trade facilitation services anytime, anywhere in real-time.

Single mobile application...

National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) - Part 2

Following the launch of National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) Part 1 on 27th July 2023 which outlines 10 flagship catalyst projects under 6 energy transition level, the government launched the NETR Part 2 on 29th August 2023 with a suite of targets, enablers and initiatives for energy transition under a Responsible Transition pathway.

The NETR Part 2 expands and upgrades national targets from existing policies such as the National Energy Policy 2022-2040.

Notably, it introduces new national targets for bioenergy, hydrogen and carbon capture, utilization and storage.

Hydrogen?

GXBank – 1st Digital Bank to Receive Approval from BNM to Commence Operations

The Grab-led digital bank, GX Bank Berhad (GXBank), is the first of the 5 digital bank licence applicants to receive the approval to commence operations from the Minister of Finance and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) ahead of the April 2024 deadline set by BNM.

GXBank successfully completed an operational readiness review and has been approved to commence operations effective 1 September 2023. 💫💫💫

GXBank will leverage technology and innovation to serve the needs of the unserved and underserved individuals, and micro and small medium enterprises (MSME).

Additionally, the digital-only bank will support customers’ needs through various channels including a bank app and 24/7 customer support via multiple platforms.

Built for a Financially Resilient Malaysia by Malaysians 

Why BNM imposed a total of RM50mil fines on I-Serve Online Mall Sdn Bhd and its affiliates?

Back in end-2021, a joint enforcement action was taken against i-Serve Online Mall Sdn Bhd and its related affiliates, resulting in the freezing of 45 bank accounts in seven banks and seizing of cash totalling RM118.7 million. (Source: TheEdge)

During that time, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) said the action was coordinated by the National Anti-Financial Crime Centre with BNM as the lead agency, along with the Securities Commission Malaysia, Companies Commission of Malaysia, Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, Royal Malaysia Police and CyberSecurity Malaysia.

The raid caused some hoohaa in the market back then. On 26 January 2022, i-Serve Online Mall, its shareholders Datuk Goh Hwan Hua and Boon Soon Heng, Goh’s wife Datin Neow Ean Lee, i-Serve Technology & Vacations Sdn Bhd (ISTV), Advance Digital Ventures Berhad (ADV) and Trillion Cove Holdings Berhad (TCH) filed a judicial review application in the High Court.

Subsequently, the e-commerce firm i-Serve Online Mall Sdn Bhd and its affiliates obtained leave from the High Court to initiate a judicial review to challenge the freezing of its accounts by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM). (Source: MalayMail)

And, now according to the latest statement released from BNM:

Unpopular BigPay changes, and how can we RELOAD with ZERO FEE?

The good old days are over for BigPay users. Many users are complaining over the internet since the unpopular announcement was made by BigPay via email to all their users. 👀

Starting 30 August 2023, BigPay had some changes in the fees for some of their services. The notable changes are:

How Does Tower REIT Swings into a Loss?

Investing in REITs is a great way to diversify your portfolio outside of traditional stocks and bonds and can be attractive for their strong dividends and long-term capital appreciation.

But then, how can a REIT report a loss? This is what we witnessed at Tower REIT... Let's take this as a good case study here...

So, how does Tower REIT swings into a loss in the most recent quarterly income announcement?

Who are the 9 Malaysian companies on the 2023 Forbes Asia's Best Under A Billion list?

Wow. A total of 9 Malaysian firms have been named as part of Forbes Asia’s coverage of Best Under A Billion 2023. (Better than last year 2022 😀)

The yearly list highlights the 200 Asia-Pacific public companies with less than US$1 billion (RM4.57 billion) in revenue and consistent top and bottom-line growth.

Who are they?

Here you go... 👇👇👇

Relationship between Politics and Economy in Malaysia

Greetings and welcome to Malaysia, a nation where the intricate dance between politics and the economy is both intriguing and pivotal.

Through our exploration of this interconnected relationship, we will uncover the historical origins, present nuances, and prospective trajectories that shape Malaysia's development.

Historical Interplay

Colonial Legacy: Shaping Economic Foundations

To understand the present, we must revisit the past. Malaysia's economic landscape carries echoes of its colonial history. During the British colonial era, they shaped the economy of the nation to be based on resources, with rubber and tin being the main pillars. The political decisions they made were closely intertwined with their economic pursuits, which ultimately influenced trade patterns and labor dynamics.

Post-Independence Policies: Political Influence on Economic Growth

The post-independence era saw a tango between politics and the economy, choreographed by visionary leaders. From Tun Mahathir's ambitious industrialization drive to Najib Razak's 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) initiative 💣, politics sculpted economic blueprints. Grand projects and policies took center stage, their success often entwined with political stability.

Policy Dynamics

Embrace the Future. Let AI Unplugged 2023 ignite your Journey to Success!

Calling all Tech Titans, Entrepreneurs, Innovators, and Data Wizards!

Join us at AI Unplugged 2023!

📅 Date: 10th August 2023

🏢 Venue: The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey into the cutting-edge realm of artificial intelligence?

Brace yourself for an immersive experience at AI Unplugged 2023, an event brought to you by the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM)!

The 10 Initiatives under National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) - Phase 1

"The launch of the NETR marks an important change in our thinking. It is not only a document that contains interim measures to meet our Net-Zero target. But it is a combination of strategies and initiatives that could transform our economy, livelihoods, and our place in the world," Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said during the official launching of NETR today.

What is NETR?

The National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) today announced 10 wide-ranging catalytic initiatives that will open up investment opportunities between RM435 billion to RM1.85 trillion by 2050.

Do you know these EV related Tax Incentives offered by Government?

Yeah! Tesla Malaysia officially launched here by opening its office in Malaysia today. As part of Tesla's commitment to Malaysia, the company has unveiled a comprehensive development plan for experience centre, service and support, and charging infrastructure in the country, aimed at delivering a seamless Tesla ownership experience.

In line with Malaysia’s goal to promote low-carbon mobility and support the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Tesla customers will enjoy some tax incentives for newly registered zero-emission vehicles.

Here are the Tax Incentives 💖💖💖:

5 Malaysian stocks that could benefit from IF mega concerts were held here

Concerts have always been a significant source of entertainment and a major revenue generator for the music industry. With the world gradually returning to normal after the pandemic, the resumption of concerts is gaining ground recently.

High-profile concerts such as Coldplay's "Music of the Spheres" and Taylor Swift's "The Eras" are tourists pulling events to a country. These high-demand events not only entertain local fans but also attract a significant international audience. 💞💞💞

In this blog post, we'll explore 5 Bursa-listed stocks that could potentially reap substantial benefits if mega-international concerts were held in Malaysia. I mean IF lahhhh... 😏

Revision of Stamp Duty for Bursa Stocks Trading, effective July 2023

PM Anwar said, during this initiative announcement last month, that the move to increase in market liquidity will attract more domestic and foreign funds into the Malaysian stock market.

"I am confident that this step will stimulate the market and enhance its attractiveness," he said at the launch of a flagship capital market initiative last month.

So, what does this change mean to you as an investor?

What is Real Interest Rate?

In the complex world of finance, the real interest rate is a fundamental concept that plays a crucial role in shaping economic decisions. To put it simply, the real interest rate represents the nominal interest rate adjusted for inflation, providing a more accurate picture of the true cost of borrowing or the potential return on investment.

Understanding the concept of real interest rate is of utmost importance for individuals, businesses, and policymakers alike, as it can significantly impact financial planning and economic growth.

Factors Influencing Real Interest Rate

(July 2023) Understanding the 5 New IPO Companies

Bursa Malaysia’s initial public offering (IPO) momentum is expected to continue for the remainder of the year given the number of submissions in the pipeline, particularly for listings on the ACE Market.

Bursa Malaysia Bhd CEO Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift said several IPO applications have been approved and are pending listing. And, this month, we have 5 new IPOs for your consideration.

Here is some brief info on all FIVE of them:

How to Claim your RM200 eBeliaRahmah Credit with TNG eWallet, Boost, and Setel?

The eBeliaRahmah program is a government initiative announced under the 2023 Budget by the Ministry of Finance.

The program aims to continue fostering a cashless payment culture among youths while alleviating the financial burden of youth and full-time IPT (Institut Pengajian Tinggi) students.

The program is expected to benefit approximately 2 million Malaysian youths*** through the offer of a RM200 eBeliaRahmah credit, which can be used for physical purchases through selected e-wallet service providers.

At the same time, participating e-wallet service providers will also offer additional incentives in the form of vouchers, cashback, discounts, or rewards points.

When is it started and ended?

SC-Bursa: Measures to Boost Capital Market Vibrancy and Competitiveness

The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and Bursa Malaysia Berhad (Bursa Malaysia) today welcome the announcements by the Honourable Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, aimed at driving Malaysia’s economic growth and capital market competitiveness.

The short-term and medium-term measures address three key pillars essential to the growth and development of the capital market in Malaysia:

• Pillar 1
  Creating market vibrancy with greater participation opportunities for the rakyat;
  
  
• Pillar 2
  Attracting larger pool of investors to support financing for small, medium enterprises and new economy companies; and
  
  
• Pillar 3
  Enhancing Malaysia’s competitiveness to strengthen market confidence.

Father's Day Special: 5 Timeless Financial Advice every Father should share with their children

As Father's Day approaches, it's a moment to celebrate the role of fathers and recognize the invaluable lessons they impart on their children. Beyond love and support, fathers have a unique opportunity to shape their children's financial futures by sharing essential financial advice.

Whether you're an experienced father or a new dad, this blog post will outline the best financial advice you can provide to your children, equipping them with the tools to thrive financially.

So, dads, let's dive in and unlock the secrets to securing a bright financial future for your beloved children.

Online Job (Task) Scam Alert

Has anyone come across this kind of recruitment before? The modus operandi has changed from the earlier scam version of a similar task job offer.

Let us go into details below:

New Property Projects @ Genting Highlands

Nestled near the border of Selangor about 35km away from Kuala Lumpur, Genting represents a popular weekend getaway from KL, connected by highways, roads, and cable car.

Since 1971, Genting Highlands has remained Malaysia's only legal gambling outfit - its mini Las Vegas on a mountaintop. While the casinos are central to Genting Highlands, a theme park provides fun rides and activities for adults and children alike, while SkyAvenue and First World Plaza are colourful shopping complexes with restaurants, entertainment, and boutique outlets.

Due to the above attractions and cool temperatures, Genting Highlands has become a popular tourist spot in Malaysia. And, many people are eager to own a property up there, whether as a second home or for investment purposes.

Lately, numerous new property projects are on the way up the mountain. But, would it be too crowded all the way up to Genting Highlands?

Here are some of the new projects:

What's going on with Ringgit? BNM explains...

Ongoing developments in global financial markets have weighed down on market sentiment. These include the US debt ceiling impasse and episodes of stress in the US and European banking sectors.

This has led to an increase in demand for safe-haven assets such as the US dollar and outflows from most emerging market economies as investors seek to protect their investments. 💟

Against this backdrop, the US dollar has strengthened against most currencies.

OPR Hikes have caused Financial Hardship for Borrowers?

There were noises from the general public and politicians questioning the recent BNM's OPR hike. Deemed as a surprise hike in the OPR, some quarters said that this has caused unnecessary financial hardship to borrowers, particularly individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

So, do OPR hikes have really caused financial hardship for borrowers?

Below is the answer provided by BNM:

OPR Hike will Affect Economic Growth?

Monetary policy decisions affect many facets of a nation’s economy. As such, it is often the case that such decisions are closely watched and debated not just by financial markets, but also by the general public.

The lively conversations around the BNM Monetary Policy Committee’s (MPC) decision to raise the OPR by 25 basis points on 3 May exemplify this fact.

Deciding on the OPR isn’t something BNM takes lightly. There are many factors that the MPC considers. BNM's analysis is based on a broad range of forward-looking data and engagement with various industries and consumers.

So, would OPR hike affect our economic growth?

Below is the answer provided by BNM:

Huobi Global is Operating Illegally in Malaysia

The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) has taken action against Huobi Global Limited, and its Chief Executive Officer Leon Li for operating a digital asset exchange (DAX) in Malaysia without registration.

Accordingly, the SC has issued a public reprimand against Huobi Global Limited, and Leon Li for operating illegally in Malaysia.

10 Financial Lessons You Could Have Learned from Your Mother

As we grow older, we tend to look back on our childhood and reflect on the lessons we learned from our parents. While we may remember the rules about finishing our vegetables or cleaning our rooms, we often overlook the financial lessons that were imparted to us.

Mothers, in particular, are often the ones who take charge of the household budget and teach their children about money management.

In this blog post, we will explore 10 financial lessons that you could have learned from your mother. These lessons are simple yet effective, and they can help you make better financial decisions that will benefit you for years to come.

From saving money to investing wisely, these lessons will equip you with the knowledge you need to achieve your financial goals. Whether you are just starting out in your career or you are a seasoned professional, these lessons are relevant to everyone.

So, let's take a moment to reflect on the wise advice that our mothers gave us and see how we can apply it to our financial lives today.

Here are potentially 10 of the best financial lessons given by a mother (or, your mother 👄):

Interest Rate Hike in Malaysia: Who Wins and Who Loses?

As the global economy continues to reel from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Malaysia's central bank recently announced a surprise interest rate hike. This move, aimed at curbing inflation and stabilizing the currency, has left many wondering who will benefit and who will suffer as a result.

The interest rate hike will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications across various sectors of the Malaysian economy, affecting individuals, businesses, and investors alike.

While some may view this decision as a positive sign of economic recovery, others may worry about the potential negative repercussions. As such, it's important to take a closer look at the potential winners and losers in light of this recent development.

This blog post will examine the impact of the interest rate hike in Malaysia and the effects on different industries, such as banking, real estate, and consumer goods, and the impact on the average Malaysian citizen.

Bank Negara Malaysia's interest rate hike has winners and losers, and they can be summarized as follows:

Using your EPF Account 2 to secure loan? What is FSA2 and can I apply for it?

On 9th March 2023, PM Anwar Ibrahim, who is also the finance minister, announced that the government is deliberating to greenlight the use of EPF savings as collateral for emergency loans, following repeated calls from the Opposition to allow further withdrawals.

Anwar pointed out that this would only apply to those who are really struggling with their financial circumstances.

Fast forward to today (3 April 2023), the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) announces that it has finalised the mechanism as well as the terms and conditions for the use of Account 2 savings as support for loan applications.

What is Account 2 Facility Support?

(FSA2 = Fasiliti Sokongan Akaun 2)

Do you know the 4 listed companies that signed MOUs in China?

It was a fruitful 3-days China trip made by our PMX DS Anwar Ibrahim which concluded with Malaysia having secured a record RM 170 billion in investment commitments from China.

This is a result of 19 memorandum of understanding (MOU) between businesses in China and Malaysia. "This is historic. It is good for Malaysia and the future," said the Prime Minister at the Malaysia-China Business Forum, which was attended by 1,000 business leaders from both countries.

AXA Affin + MPI Generali = GENERALI MALAYSIA

In the local insurance industry, it was glad to know that Generali has acquired a controlling majority in AXA Affin joint ventures in Malaysia and 100% purchase of MPI Generali Insurans Berhad.

So, on 1st April 2023, the businesses have been integrated under the launch of a single, unified brand - Generali Malaysia, one of the largest general insurers and emerging life insurer in Malaysia.

Who is Generali?

Gloves Back in Trend? Sentiment or Fundamental Driven?

Local glove stock prices have seen a nice price run-up recently, supported by strong volume as well. For example, Top Glove (TOPGLOV) one of the world's leading glove manufacturers continues to attract investors' attention in Bursa Malaysia this year.

The stock has been traded actively since reporting its latest quarterly result, which is still in the red, as investors seem to believe that the worst might be over and looking ahead for turnaround profitability during the second half of 2023.

To recap, prices of glove stocks plunged from November 2020 high. There are indications that the glove sector has probably reached its lowest point and is now beginning to turn around?"

Now, the question is whether this is sentiment or fundamental driven?

What is the implication of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) collapse in Malaysia?

Silicon Valley Bank, one of the most prominent financial institutions catering to the technology industry, has been in the news lately for all the wrong reasons. The bank, founded in 1983, has been a pillar of support for tech startups, venture capitalists, and entrepreneurs.

However, recent developments have revealed that the bank is facing significant challenges, including a decline in profits, a rise in loan losses, and regulatory scrutiny. The bank has been struggling to cope with the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, and its exposure to risky loans has raised concerns about its long-term viability.

In this blog post, we will delve into the factors that led to Silicon Valley Bank's collapse, the impact it will have on the tech industry, and what is the potential impact on Malaysia.

Who is SVB?