Bursa Malaysia’s KLCI slipped 0.6% to 1,602 in early Thursday trade, extending earlier losses and touching its lowest level since November 2025. Sentiment remained under pressure from persistent foreign selling, elevated U.S. Treasury yields, and higher oil prices.
On the domestic front, caution was further heightened by the planned expansion of the KLCI from 30 to 50 constituents, to be implemented in phases starting in December, as well as concerns over potential earnings disappointments amid higher-for-longer cost pressures and ongoing supply-chain disruptions.
Downside was partly contained as investors looked ahead to Budget 2027, due to be tabled on Friday, hoping for greater clarity on fiscal priorities, infrastructure allocations, and measures to support consumer spending.
Sector-wise, technology, commercial services, manufacturing, and industrials led the declines, while healthcare, energy minerals, and retail trade provided some support. Banks were among the hardest hit, with Hong Leong Bank down 2.1% and CIMB off 1.9%. Other notable losers included Kellington Group (-2.6%), Sime Darby Property (-1.6%), and Telekom Malaysia (-1.0%).
