Investment & Market Trends

KUALA LUMPUR,  Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) has partnered with a leading insurance provider to launch a new financial product designed specifically for Malaysia’s B40 income group. The initiative aims to provide greater financial security and protection to households with lower income, who have traditionally faced limited access to affordable insurance solutions. The new product combines basic life coverage with flexible premium options, making it accessible and practical for daily wage earners and low-income families. According to BSN, the product is part of the bank’s broader commitment to financial inclusion and supporting underserved communities. Since its debut in April, Qaseh Setia has provided coverage to more than 20,000 individuals. “Financial security is not a privilege; it should be accessible to everyone,” said a BSN spokesperson. “This initiative ensures that even the most vulnerable groups in society can have a safety net in times of need.” The insurer involved in the collaboration added that the product also includes features such as hospitalisation coverage, personal accident benefits, and simple claims procedures, making it both practical and user-friendly for the target segment. BSN has announced that the product will be available nationwide through its branches and digital platforms, allowing customers to apply easily without extensive paperwork. The move aligns with Malaysia’s national agenda to improve financial literacy and inclusion among the B40 population. Financial experts have welcomed the initiative, noting that tailored products for lower-income groups can play a crucial role in reducing vulnerability and encouraging responsible financial planning. The B40 group, which represents the bottom 40% of Malaysia’s household income distribution, often faces challenges in accessing affordable insurance. This collaboration between BSN and the insurer is seen as a step toward bridging that gap.

KUALA LUMPUR, Bursa Malaysia Securities Bhd has rejected Ivory Properties Group Bhd’s application for more time to submit its regularisation plan to exit Practice Note 17 (PN17) status. As a result, trading in Ivory Properties’ securities will be suspended from Aug 29, 2025, and the company will be delisted on Sept 3, 2025, unless it files an appeal with Bursa Securities by Aug 28, 2025. Bursa Malaysia said any appeal submitted after the deadline will not be considered. If the company files an appeal within the given timeframe, the delisting will be put on hold until a decision is made. However, trading of its securities will still be suspended from Aug 29. Bursa added that even if delisted, Ivory Properties will continue to operate as an unlisted entity, with the ability to carry on its business, implement restructuring plans, and potentially deliver value to shareholders.

KUALA LUMPUR, Express Powerr Solutions (M) Bhd, a generator rental services provider, is set to debut on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia on Sept 24, 2025, with plans to raise RM36 million from its initial public offering (IPO). Priced at 20 sen per share, the listing will give the company a market capitalisation of RM186.9 million, based on its enlarged issued share capital of 934.4 million shares. From left: Express Powerr Solutions (M) Bhd non-independent executive director Rosli Jonid, Express Powerr managing director Lim Cheng Ten, Express Powerr independent non-executive chairman Datuk Mohd Redza Shah Abdul Wahid, Mercury Securities Sdn Bhd director Jamieson Chew Yen Loong and Mercury Securities head of corporate finance Eric Chong Soo Keng. Managing director Lim Cheng Ten said the funds raised will be used to expand the company’s generator fleet by at least 36 units and acquire medium- and high-voltage equipment to support growth over the next three years. He added that while Tenaga Nasional Bhd remains the company’s largest revenue source, its contribution has fallen to 60% in 2024 from 95% previously. With 27 oil and gas projects worth RM4.46 billion approved in the first nine months of 2024, Express Powerr expects stronger demand for generator sets in exploration and drilling activities. To reward investors, the company has introduced a dividend policy of distributing 30% to 50% of net profit. Lim noted that while Express Powerr has ventured into solar, it remains at an early stage and is not a near-term focus. The IPO will comprise 180 million new shares, representing 19.3% of the enlarged share capital, along with an offer for sale of 65.4 million existing shares.

KUALA LUMPUR, Bank Kerjasama Rakyat Malaysia Bhd (Bank Rakyat) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PT Bathi Rakyat Abadi to expand Shariah-compliant financial solutions—particularly Ar-Rahnu (Islamic pawn broking)—and to support the growth of halal-based businesses in Indonesia. Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said the partnership reflects the shared commitment of Malaysia and Indonesia to empower communities, enhance financial inclusion, and strengthen the cooperative movement across borders. “This collaboration is a meaningful step towards building inclusive financial systems that encourage responsible development and create opportunities for communities in both nations,” he said. Bank Rakyat chairman Datuk Mohd Irwan Mohd Mubarak said the alliance highlights the bank’s ambition to expand internationally and reinforce its role in cooperative finance. “This partnership opens up significant opportunities, especially in Ar-Rahnu services. Bank Rakyat will share its expertise in Shariah-compliant operations while supporting the halal business sector in Indonesia,” he said, adding that the bank remains committed to strengthening its regional presence and promoting sustainable solutions that uplift communities and enterprises alike.

SINGAPORE, China International Capital Corp (CICC) and China Galaxy Securities, two state-backed investment banks, plan to launch investment funds worth over $1 billion in Southeast Asia as part of a push to tap the region’s fast-growing market and reduce risks from U.S. tariff tensions. The move marks a shift for the banks, which usually focus on China’s domestic market. It also aligns with Beijing’s call for financial institutions to expand overseas investments and strengthen regional economic ties. Units of CICC and China Galaxy are expected to roll out the funds within the next 12 to 18 months, according to company executives and sources. “As Chinese companies adopt the ‘China plus N’ strategy to diversify supply chains and operations outside China, they need strong local partners in Southeast Asia,” said Carol Fong, CEO of CGS International, a China Galaxy subsidiary. “This regional knowledge will support expansion in supply chain, distribution, and other industries.” CICC Capital, the private equity arm of CICC, is also working with Malaysia Digital Economy Corp to launch a $100 million fund focused on Malaysia’s gaming industry, according to an official from Malaysia’s digital ministry. Meanwhile, CGS International is partnering with Fullgoal Asset Management Hong Kong and Bursa Malaysia to simplify the listing of foreign ETFs in Malaysia, particularly those linked to Chinese assets. The first listings could take place within 12–18 months, pending regulatory approval. China remains Southeast Asia’s largest trading partner, with two-way trade rising 12% to $982 billion in 2024, official data shows.

HONG KONG, Shein has long been seen as a master of reinvention. In 2022, the fast-fashion giant shifted its headquarters and key trademarks from China to Singapore in a bid to appear more global. The move initially paid off, with booming U.S. and international sales propelling its valuation to $100 billion — ahead of rivals such as H&M. Yet, the retailer’s repeatedly delayed initial public offering and mounting setbacks highlight the limits of such makeovers. Executive Chairman Donald Tang first aimed to take Shein public in New York in 2022, but U.S. lawmakers raised concerns over its supply chain practices in China. The company has maintained it enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy against forced and child labour. A subsequent listing attempt in London also collapsed after failing to secure approval from the China Securities Regulatory Commission, which requires companies with substantial ties to China to obtain clearance before going public. Shein’s third effort, this time in Hong Kong, now appears shaky. Bloomberg reported this week that the company has been exploring the creation of a mainland parent entity to strengthen its case — a move that would effectively restore its Chinese identity. While the reasons behind Beijing’s hesitation remain unclear, paying local taxes could help sway regulators. The drawn-out listing saga has proven costly. More urgent challenges loom: in its largest markets, the U.S. has ended duty-free treatment for shipments under $800, while Europe is introducing a €2 levy on low-value e-commerce packages. At the same time, intensifying competition from Temu — owned by $169 billion PDD — is pressuring margins. Financially, Shein is also under strain. The Financial Times reported earlier this year that net profit in 2024 fell nearly 40% to $1 billion, despite revenue growing by 20%. Investors, eager for liquidity, have since pushed the company to accept a sharply reduced valuation, with Bloomberg citing figures as low as $30 billion. Shein’s struggles carry a broader warning for other Chinese firms attempting global reinventions. PDD, listed in New York but incorporated in the Cayman Islands, shifted its headquarters to Ireland in 2023, while ByteDance spreads operations across Singapore and California. Shein’s experience shows that corporate reshuffling has limits — and can even backfire.

NEW YORK, SoftBank has agreed to invest US$2 billion in Intel, a move aimed at supporting the US chipmaker while advancing SoftBank’s own semiconductor ambitions. The Japanese conglomerate is adding Intel to a portfolio that already includes AI leaders Nvidia and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC). SoftBank will pay US$23 per share, slightly below Intel’s most recent closing price. Intel will issue new shares for the deal. Following the announcement, Intel’s stock jumped over 5% in after-hours trading, while SoftBank shares fell as much as 5.4% in Tokyo, marking the largest drop since April. Intel is aiming to prove it can be a technology leader again after falling behind in the chip industry. SoftBank, owner of Arm Holdings, has long sought a central role in AI but has largely remained on the sidelines amid a global hardware spending boom. Its US$500 billion Stargate project with OpenAI, Oracle, and Abu Dhabi fund MGX, aimed at building data centres, has progressed more slowly than expected. Similarly, Masayoshi Son’s “Izanagi” project to develop energy-efficient chips to compete with Nvidia has yet to produce a market-ready product. “It’s hard to see how much this investment contributes to either SoftBank’s value or short-term earnings,” said Tomoaki Kawasaki, senior analyst at Iwaicosmo Securities. For Intel, the investment signals strong confidence from a global player, as the US chipmaker works to regain its position in the AI space after falling behind TSMC in contract manufacturing and Nvidia in chip design. Intel CEO Tan Lip-Bu recently met with former US President Donald Trump to explore potential government support, including a possible 10% stake in the company. SoftBank’s purchase also expands its US presence amid Tokyo’s push for Washington to reduce tariffs in exchange for foreign investment. The deal follows SoftBank’s acquisition of Foxconn Technology’s electric vehicle plant in Ohio, which could accelerate the Stargate project. Other major Asian players, including TSMC and Samsung Electronics, are also investing billions in US manufacturing. The timing of SoftBank’s investment—shortly after the Trump-Tan meeting—has raised questions about potential political motivations. “If it’s political, then it’s not profit-motivated,” said Amir Anvarzadeh, Japan equity strategist at Asymmetric Advisors. “Investing in Intel to appease Trump may not be seen as sound business.” In a statement, Masayoshi Son praised Intel’s legacy. “For more than 50 years, Intel has been a trusted leader in innovation. This strategic investment reflects our belief that advanced semiconductor manufacturing and supply will continue to grow in the US, with Intel playing a critical role.” Tan, a chip industry veteran who joined Intel as CEO this year, expressed gratitude for the investment. He previously served on SoftBank’s board and has invested in startups alongside Son. “I appreciate the confidence he has placed in Intel with this investment,” Tan said.

Xiaomi Corp reported a 31% rise in quarterly revenue, beating expectations, as strong demand for its second electric vehicle (EV) helped offset weaker smartphone sales. Revenue reached 116 billion yuan (US$16.2 billion or RM68.5 billion), slightly above analyst forecasts of 115 billion yuan. Net profit nearly doubled to 11.9 billion yuan. The company delivered 81,302 cars in the second quarter, bringing first-half deliveries to over 157,000 — setting Xiaomi on track to surpass its 2024 total. The surge was driven by the YU7 sport utility vehicle, launched in late June by co-founder Lei Jun. High demand has pushed wait times for the model to more than a year, underscoring both consumer appetite and production bottlenecks. Xiaomi has pledged US$10 billion to compete with industry leaders Tesla Inc and BYD Co, with a goal of breaking into the world’s top five carmakers. Lei said the EV unit could turn profitable in the second half of 2025. Xiaomi’s market value has surged by about US$120 billion over the past year on optimism around its EV expansion, despite challenges. A fatal crash involving its SU7 sedan in March, which had its Autopilot engaged, prompted regulatory scrutiny of advanced driver-assistance systems. Meanwhile, Beijing has sought to ease an industry-wide price war that has squeezed margins. Xiaomi has so far avoided heavy discounting, thanks to robust demand. Beyond EVs, Xiaomi’s other businesses also showed growth. Its Internet of Things (IoT) division is estimated to have recorded a 30–40% sales jump, supported by gains in household appliances and government subsidies. However, smartphone sales slowed to mid-single-digit growth despite steep discounts during June’s shopping festival, which pressured margins. Gross margin expanded year-on-year to 22.5%, supported by EV scale and a stronger IoT mix, though slightly weaker than in the previous quarter. The company is also investing in artificial intelligence and semiconductor design. It recently unveiled its three-nanometre Xring O1 chip, built for devices such as the Tablet 7 Ultra, and plans to invest US$7 billion into chip development this decade.

Great Eastern Holdings (GEH) has allotted and issued 29,711,041 bonus ordinary shares and 443,608,028 Class C non-voting shares to eligible shareholders, ahead of its trading resumption on Aug 21 at 9am. At an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) on July 8, less than 75% of minority shareholders supported the company’s proposed delisting. As a result, over 90% of all shareholders, including major shareholder Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp (OCBC), voted instead to amend GEH’s constitution to allow the issuance of non-voting Class C shares. On Aug 14, GEH announced that minority shareholders owning 29.7 million shares have elected to receive the bonus issue, and shareholders owning 5,423 shares voted to receive the Class C shares. Under this arrangement, minority shareholders could choose between receiving a one-for-one bonus issue or Class C shares, while OCBC committed to taking Class C shares. On Aug 14, GEH confirmed that minority shareholders holding 29.7 million shares opted for the bonus issue, while holders of 5,423 shares chose Class C shares. This move reduces OCBC’s stake from 93.7% to 88.19%, thereby restoring GEH’s public free float. Following the one-for-one bonus issue, shareholders effectively doubled their holdings — for instance, an investor with 1,000 shares now holds 2,000 shares as of Aug 21. With the issuance completed, GEH’s total share base now stands at 503,030,110 ordinary shares and 443,608,028 Class C non-voting shares, up from the previous 473,319,069 shares.

KUALA LUMPUR, Ninja Van Malaysia has unveiled 44 new international delivery lanes, opening direct access for Malaysian businesses to major markets across Asia Pacific, North America, Latin America, the Middle East, and Europe. Chief executive officer Lin Zheng said that in today’s fast-paced e-commerce environment, every entrepreneur and business deserves the opportunity to connect with customers globally, not just domestically. “SMEs have long struggled with high shipping costs, complicated customs procedures, and limited overseas market access. Our new cross-border solution addresses these challenges by being seamless, affordable, and reliable. With rates starting from just RM30 — nearly 50% lower than many competitors — and delivery times between seven and 12 days, we’re making international trade far more accessible,” he said during the launch event today. Lin highlighted that the initiative reflects Ninja Van’s mission to empower local SMEs to scale beyond Malaysia’s borders while also contributing to the nation’s economic growth, innovation, and vision for a digitally-driven, globally competitive economy. In a statement, Ninja Van said that with its existing services to Singapore and the Philippines, the company now covers a total of 46 international destinations, making it one of the widest cross-border logistics networks available for Malaysian SMEs. The company added that its expanded service includes seamless platform integration, fast order processing, documentation support, door-to-door delivery, and full shipment tracking — providing SMEs with a cost-effective and reliable solution to reach global markets.