Energy

Oil prices ease despite Trump warning of possible tariffs on Russian buyers

Oil prices eased on Monday and headed for a modest quarterly loss, despite a warning from U.S. President Donald Trump that he may impose secondary tariffs on buyers of Russian oil if he feels Moscow is blocking his efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

Business

Trump's tariffs should herald a 'march towards independence' for Europe, says ECB's Lagarde

PARIS: The likely implementation of tariffs imposed by the United States on April 2 should mark the beginning of a march towards independence for Europe, European Central Bank (ECB) head Christine Lagarde said on Monday.

Business

China to become a global energy storage powerhouse

CHINA's energy storage industry is set to experience significant growth through 2027, fueled by a combination of growing market demand and supportive government policies, according to industry experts and company executives.

Markets

Asian stocks tumble as US tariffs spark recession concerns

Asian share markets tumbled on Monday as traders moved away from risk assets in trade-reliant emerging economies, after U.S. President Donald Trump said the reciprocal tariffs to be announced this week would essentially affect all countries.

Business

China's manufacturing hits 12-month high, driven by strong orders

BEIJING: China's manufacturing activity expanded at the fastest pace in a year in March, a factory survey showed on Monday, with new orders boosting production, giving the world's No. 2 economy some reprieve as it deals with an intensifying U.S. trade war.

Retail

Pop Mart eyes bigger footprint worldwide

Pop Mart International Group Ltd expects annual revenue to reach 20 billion yuan ($2.75 billion) in 2025, reflecting a 50 percent year-on-year rise, and anticipates growth in overseas markets to exceed 10 billion yuan as the company pushes to become a global cultural and consumer brand, its top executive said.

Commodities

Gold surges past US$3,100 as US tariffs, uncertainty propel safe-haven flows

Gold prices on Monday soared above $3,100 per ounce for the first time as concerns around U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs and the potential economic fallout, combined with geopolitical worries, drove a fresh wave of investments into the safe-haven asset.

Business

China's manufacturing activity speeds up in March, PMI shows

BEIJING: China's manufacturing activity expanded at the fastest pace in a year in March, an official factory survey showed on Monday, in a positive sign for the world's second-largest economy as it deals with an escalating U.S. trade war.

Markets

South Korean shares hit near two-month low after short-selling ban fully lifted

SEOUL: South Korea shares fell to the lowest level in nearly two months on Monday in the first day of trading after it fully lifted a five-year ban on short-selling that has hindered its inclusion in MSCI's developed market index.

Economy

Trump says reciprocal tariffs will target all countries

ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE: U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday that reciprocal tariffs he is set to announce this week will include all nations, not just a smaller group of 10 to 15 countries with the biggest trade imbalances.

Analyst Reports

Potential new job win likely to catalyse IJM growth

PETALING JAYA: Analysts have reduced their target price for IJM Corp Bhd and lowered their financial year ending March 31, 2025 (FY25) to FY27 core profit targets for the group following a cut in new order book assumptions.

Markets

Short-selling resumption expected to entice global funds to Seoul

SEOUL: As South Korea prepares to lift a 17-month ban on short selling, market watchers are expressing confidence that long-term benefits from the resumption of the popular trading practice will far outweigh any near-term volatility.

Business

India, US making progress towards trade deal, officials say

NEW DELHI: Indian and United States officials have discussed trade issues including the reduction of tariffs and easing of non-tariff barriers, making progress towards a bilateral trade agreement during several days of talks in New Delhi on Saturday.

Economy

China, Japan, S. Korea renew free trade call

SEOUL: Trade chiefs from China, Japan and South Korea are renewing their call for an open, fair flow of goods and pledge to deepen economic ties, a few days before the Trump administration is set to unleash fresh tariffs on nations around the world.

Insight

As Trump sinks dollar, once unthinkable worry grips markets

AS US stock prices tumbled this month, John Sidawi, a fund manager at Federated Hermes, noticed something strange. 

Insight

Taking inspiration from CEOs key for companies

THERE is nothing worse than a company that has to keep changing its chief executive officer (CEO).

Corporate News

Malaysian-made polysilicon for US plant

KUCHING: South Korea's OCI Holdings will use the company's Malaysia-made solar-grade polysilicon for a new solar cell production plant to be built in Texas, United States.

Business

Malaysian companies expand global reach through Foodex Japan 2025

MALAYSIA'S strong presence at the 50th Foodex Japan 2025, held from March 11 to 14, showcased its growing influence in the global halal food market.

Analyst Reports

Genting’s earnings intact despite RM46mil fine incurred in Nevada

PETALING JAYA: Genting Bhd's fully owned subsidiary Resorts World Las Vegas's (RWLV) operations are expected to recover with the return of gamblers to the casino, after having reached a settlement with the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB).

Technology

Chip ambitions hinge on talent development

PETALING JAYA: The country's potential to be a key hub for advanced semiconductor manufacturing, packaging and fabrication hinges on talent.