KUALA LUMPUR: Investors' confidence in Bank Negara Malaysia's (BNM) stable monetary policy has contributed to a strong inflow of foreign funds, totalling RM17.7 billion in the bond and equity markets for the first eight months of this year, according to Kenanga Research.
The research firm said BNM maintained the overnight policy rate (OPR) at 3.0 per cent rather than following the interest rate movements of the United States Federal Reserve (Fed).
Instead, the central bank focus on local dynamics, which has attracted foreign investors to invest in the Malaysian market.
According to Kenanga Research, inflows in the bond market reached RM9 billion in August, the highest amount since July 2023.
It stated that this is following the RM7.8 billion inflow in July, indicating growing investor interest in the Malaysian market.
"In the equity market, almost RM4 billion inflows were also recorded in the same period, reflecting investors' confidence in the country's economic growth prospects.
"BNM is expected to maintain the interest rate at 3.0 percent until 2025, with the ringgit forecasted at 4.10 against the US dollar at 4.10 by the end of 2025," it added.
Kenanga Research said that BNM's decision not to follow US interest rate movement is an effective strategic approach to stabilising the local market.
The firm believes that this stability will continue to attract foreign investors, especially in the bond and equity sectors.
However, it noted that not all sectors fully recovered from the massive sell-off that occurred on Aug 5, 2024.
"Certain sectors such as utilities and healthcare, including companies such as IHH, are performing well.
"On the other hand, the technology and oil and gas sectors experienced declines in price-to-earnings multiples.
"With the announcement of a rate cut by the US central bank, the market is expected to focus on the recovery of global demand, especially in the oil and gas sector," it said.
Kenanga Research added that the rate cut in the US may give impetus to companies such as Dayang and Wasco that operate in the upstream oil and gas space.
Meanwhile, the Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) sector is also receiving attention following the increase in foreign purchases.
"Malaysian bond yields are expected to decline, making REITs an attractive option compared to conventional bonds.
"Overall, the foreign funds inflow into Malaysia shows strong confidence in the local economy, with hopes for continued growth towards the end of the year," it added.