JAMES ROBERTO
A multimedia journalist focused on producing articles about controversial global issues specifically on business, economy, politics, and technology. A strong believer in freedom of the press and exposing the wrong. only through engagement and communications can we as humans evolve.
An accredited member of a leading local broadcast media organization.
Global semiconductor equipment sales to hit record US$108.5bil this year
The semiconductor equipment industry is set to achieve a record-breaking US$108.5 billion in sales for 2022, surpassing the previous year's US$102.5 billion. SEMI predicts continued growth in front-end and back-end manufacturing categories, despite an anticipated market decline to US$91.2 billion in 2023.
Asia stocks edge up despite global growth worries.
Asian markets show mixed performance as Hong Kong and China stocks rise, despite worries about economic slowdown. The MSCI Asia-Pacific index edges up, with Hang Seng surging over 2% following China's COVID policy relaxation. Australian and Japanese markets experience declines, reflecting ongoing global economic uncertainties.
Retail loan growth likely to remain strong
Banking stocks remain a relatively safe investment despite emerging challenges. The sector is experiencing declining interest rates, increasing deposit competition, and potential asset quality issues. Experts suggest focusing on non-interest revenue streams to maintain financial resilience in a potentially challenging economic landscape.
Sarawak targets revenue of RM11bil by 2023
Sarawak aims to achieve a record revenue of RM11 billion in 2023, with approximately RM5.25 billion from taxes. The state's income will come from diverse sources including crude oil, LNG, palm oil, and other industrial sectors.
RHB Bank on course to meet KPI targets
RHB Bank is on track to meet most of its 2022 financial targets, including a 9.3% return on equity, 4-5% loan growth, and maintaining a low gross impaired loan ratio. Group CEO Mohd Rashid Mohamad reports progress across multiple key performance indicators.
KLCI falls as investors take profit, ringgit at 4.4760
The Malaysian stock market experienced a 1% decline with the KLCI index, while the ringgit reached a three-month high at 4.4760. Foreign investors returned to buying stocks, and potential political developments could drive pro-growth measures and domestic reforms.
Asia-Pacific leaders condemn war, renew calls for open trade
Asia-Pacific leaders gathered at the APEC summit in Thailand, strongly condemning Russia's war in Ukraine while emphasizing the need for open trade and economic stability. The majority of the 21 participating nations expressed concern about the conflict's global economic implications, marking a significant diplomatic moment.
Brunei gets top ranking for business regulation from top international economic...
Brunei has performed exceptionally well in business and labor market regulations, securing top global rankings in the Fraser Institute's Economic Freedom Index. The Sultanate scored 8.8 out of 10 in regulations, ranking fourth globally in labor market regulation and eighth in business regulation.
Malaysia unlikely to go into recession due to economic diversification
Malaysia's economy remains robust due to its diversified sectors, with services contributing 57% and manufacturing 24.3%. The country's reduced dependence on commodities and varied trading partners provide economic resilience against potential downturns.
Bank Negara raises OPR by 25bps to 2.5%, as expected
Bank Negara Malaysia's Monetary Policy Committee increased the overnight policy rate (OPR) by 25 basis points to 2.5% on September 8. This marks the third consecutive rate hike in 2022, bringing the year-to-date increase to 75 basis points. The move reflects improving economic conditions and inflation trends.
