Round-the-clock breaking news from Malaysia.
The European Parliament has given strong backing to plans for a digital euro, with lawmakers voting 416-169 in favour. The currency aims to supplement cash and offer Europeans an alternative to US-dominated payment systems by 2029.
MBSB Investment Bank has raised its 2026 GDP growth forecast to 4.5%, driven by stronger-than-expected first-half performance. The upgrade suggests Bank Negara Malaysia will maintain the Overnight Policy Rate at 2.75% throughout the year.
Financial analysts expect Bank Negara Malaysia to maintain its overnight policy rate at 2.75% this week, as declining global oil prices and the BUDI Diesel programme help reduce inflation pressures across the economy.
Japan's Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the weakening yen, with authorities maintaining close contact with Washington. The currency recovered from 40-year lows but mounting bankruptcies linked to weak yen underscore economic strain.
The yen traded near its weakest level in 40 years on Friday, with a Bank of Japan rate hike and government intervention failing to reverse its slide. Markets remain on alert for additional intervention amid concerns about Japanese spending plans.