World

S&P Global anticipates steady loan growth in Malaysia's banking sector, with 5-6% expansion expected in 2023. The country's stable economy and banks' strong capitalization support this projection, with GDP growth estimated at 4.5% over the next three years.

Asia-Pacific leaders at the APEC summit condemned Russia's war in Ukraine and emphasized the importance of open trade. The majority of the 21 participating countries denounced the conflict, with the statement acknowledging diverse perspectives on how the war impacts the global economy and regional stability.

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala highlights potential recession in major economies, emphasizing impacts on developing nations and calling for collaborative solutions to global economic challenges.

Indonesia has dramatically increased fuel prices across the nation, with Pertalite gasoline rising from 51 to 67 cents per liter and diesel from 35 to 46 cents, marking the first price hike in eight years and sparking long lines at gas stations nationwide.

EcoWorld Development Group and Public Bank have signed an MoU to provide special green financing packages for properties with green certifications. The initiative includes preferential pricing and fast-track approval for residential and commercial properties certified by Green Building Index and GreenRE.

Asian stock markets showed mixed performance ahead of crucial US jobs data. Investors are closely watching August employment figures that could influence the Federal Reserve's stance on interest rate hikes. Markets in Shanghai and Seoul gained, while Tokyo and Hong Kong experienced declines, as oil prices rose and economic uncertainty persisted.

Standard Chartered Malaysia introduces SmartStocks, a revolutionary online share trading platform allowing investors to access 12 exchanges across seven global markets from Malaysia. The service offers a single brokerage account with competitive rates, addressing challenges faced by retail investors in accessing international stock markets.

Malaysia attracted RM123.3 billion in investments from January to June 2022, with 1,714 projects generating 57,771 job opportunities. Foreign direct investments dominated at 70.9%, while the services sector played a crucial role in economic recovery.

Arizona Governor Doug Ducey met with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, celebrating a significant $12 billion semiconductor investment. The partnership underscores Taiwan's crucial role in global chip production and strengthens U.S.-Taiwan economic ties amid ongoing technological competition with China.

The International Monetary Fund has agreed to provide Sri Lanka with $2.9 billion over four years to help the country overcome its worst economic crisis. The package is contingent on creditor approvals and aims to restore financial stability and economic growth potential.