Inovatif

Category: Investments

  • Maybank Asset Management launches first in-house Shariah Global Tech Fund to tap AI megatrends

    Maybank Asset Management launches first in-house Shariah Global Tech Fund to tap AI megatrends

    Maybank Asset Management Sdn Bhd (“MAM Malaysia”) is proud to introduce the Maybank Global Technology-I Fund (“the Fund”), its second in-house global fund and a key addition to its suite of Shariah-compliant investment solutions. Designed for investors seeking long-term capital growth, the Fund aims to offer investors access to high-growth technology companies that are shaping the future of the global economy while adhering to Shariah principles.

    Hisham Hamzah, CEO of MAM commented, “The launch of the Fund comes at a pivotal time as financial markets navigate heightened volatility. Following President Donald Trump’s return to office, the U.S. has imposed significant tariffs on key trading partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China, introducing renewed uncertainty in the global economy. Amid these challenges, investors seek resilient investment solutions, and the Fund is designed to meet this need.”

    He added, “Concurrently, China’s technological advancements are reshaping the competitive landscape. Notably, a Chinese startup has released a low-cost, high-performance AI model, R1, which has garnered significant attention and is seen as a major development in the AI industry. Keeping up with these rapidly evolving market developments can be complex for investors, requiring the expertise of professional fund managers to identify opportunities and mitigate risks. the Fund offers a unique opportunity to participate in the future of innovation while benefiting from professional investment management.”

    As an equity fund, the Maybank Global Technology-I Fund invests primarily in a diversified portfolio of Shariah-compliant equities and equity-related securities of technology-driven companies worldwide. By maintaining at least 75% of its net asset value (NAV) in global Shariah-compliant technology-related equities, the Fund aims to provide investors with meaningful exposure to cutting-edge innovations in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital payments, and cloud computing.

    Denominated in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) as the base currency, the Fund is available in both retail (MYR Class) and institutional (MYR Institutional Class) offerings, with a minimum investment of RM1,000 and RM250,000, respectively.

    Investors are advised to read and understand the contents of the Fund’s Product Highlights Sheet and Prospectus, dated 6 February 2025, before making any investment decisions.

    The Maybank Global Technology-I Fund is now available on Maybank2U and Maybank branches nationwide. To learn more about the Fund, investors can visit www.maybank-am.com.my.

  • SC launches SARANA to widen financing options for MSMEs and small contractors

    The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) today announced SARANA, an alternative financing scheme offered by nine SC-registered peer-to-peer financing (P2P) platform operators under the Government e-procurement system.

    Effective immediately, this alternative financing option aims to address the working capital needs of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and small contractors, participating in Government contracts under the scope of supplies, services or works.

    SARANA offers two primary financing options, namely:

    • Invoice financing, which supports cash flow post-contract delivery; and
    • Financing for contract implementation (pre-financing), to bridge contractors’ initial working capital needs before a project is executed.

    The participating P2P platform operators are as follows:

    1. Bay Smart Capital Ventures Sdn Bhd*
    2. B2B Finpal Sdn Bhd
    3. Capsphere Services Sdn Bhd*
    4. Crowd Sense Sdn Bhd*
    5. P2P Nusa Kapital Sdn Bhd*
    6. FBM Crowdtech Sdn Bhd
    7. MicroLEAP PLT*
    8. Modalku Ventures Sdn Bhd*
    9. Moneysave (M) Sdn Bhd*

    *Offers Shariah financing 

    With the Government’s support for P2P financing as announced at the Budget 2025 tabling, SARANA provides a viable alternative to bridge critical funding gaps, particularly for companies facing challenges in assessing traditional financing.

    This initiative of enabling access to the capital market through P2P platform operators is also in line with the SC’s Catalysing MSME And MTC Access to the Capital Market: 5-Year Roadmap (2024-2028).

    Since the introduction of the P2P regulatory framework by the SC in 2016, registered P2P platform operators have played a pivotal role in addressing the financing needs of locally incorporated companies. As of 30 September 2024, P2P financing has raised a total of RM7.9 billion.

    For more information on SARANA, visit www.sc.com.my/sarana.

  • AHAM Capital declares income distribution of RM1.11 billion

    AHAM Capital declares income distribution of RM1.11 billion

    AHAM Asset Management Berhad (“AHAM Capital” or “the Company”) has declared a total income distribution of RM1.11 billion for the financial year 2024, spanning across a total of 89 wholesale and retail funds managed by the Company. These Funds encompass a diverse set of strategies and asset classes including equities, bonds, and mixed assets.

    Anton Tan, Chief Officer of Product Solutions of AHAM Capital said, “We are delighted to reaffirm our commitment to delivering consistent income to investors with average distribution yield ranging between 4.0% – 8.0% across our funds. In 2024, our strategic positioning in Malaysian equities paid off, supported by strong market performance driven by policy reforms and a surge in foreign direct investments. Additionally, easing inflationary trends and interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve created a supportive backdrop for fixed income markets, contributing to the overall stability of our income strategies.”

    Looking ahead to 2025, Anton adds, “As the global stage shifts under Trump’s new administration, alongside heightened geopolitical tensions and persistent currency volatility, the need for diversification is more critical than ever. Income strategies help provide a cornerstone for portfolio resilience by offering stability and capital preservation in an uncertain environment.

    “While the pace of rate cuts may slow, and interest rates could remain higher-for-longer, the current environment still offers a rare window for income-seeking investors to lock-in higher yields today. We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing globally diversified solutions spanning different strategies, assets and currency classes to help our clients recalibrate and position for the year ahead.”

    The Company’s Select and World Series funds delivered strong income distribution yields ranging from 4.0% to 8.0% across various asset classes and strategies. Notable highlights include the AHAM World Series – Income Fund, which achieved an impressive yield of 8.3% by capitalising on global income opportunities, while the AHAM Select SGD Income Fund and AHAM Select AUD Income Fund each recorded yield of 4.50%, offering investors the advantages of currency diversification. In the Shariah-compliant segment, the AHAM Aiiman Income Plus Fund and AHAM Aiiman Quantum Fund delivered competitive yields of 4.50% and 4.60%, respectively.

    As at 31 December 2024, AHAM Capital’s total Assets Under Administration (AUA) stood at approximately RM89.0 billion, encompassing assets under management, investment advisory, and those under distribution.

  • microLEAP Strengthens MSME Support Through SC’s Sarana Scheme

    microLEAP, a Securities Commission (SC)-registered P2P financing platform participates in the newly launched Sarana alternative financing scheme and is scaling its efforts to empower Malaysia’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and small contractors by offering innovative Shariah-compliant financing options.

    In 2024, 207 out of 208 investment notes issued by microLEAP were fully Shariah-compliant, underlining its commitment to promoting ethical, sustainable, and transparent financing solutions.

    Through the Sarana financing scheme, microLEAP leverages on technology to offer SMEs and government contractors faster, more flexible financing options, such as invoice financing and contract pre-financing, enabling businesses to meet their working capital needs effectively.

    With RM125 million in financing disbursed in 2024 alone, marking an exceptional 101% year-on-year growth, microLEAP’s impact on the SME landscape is undeniable. Tunku Danny Nasaifuddin Mudzaffar, Founder & CEO of microLEAP, emphasised the critical role of alternative financing in building resilience within Malaysia’s SME sector.

    “SMEs are the backbone of Malaysia’s economy, but many still face barriers to securing the capital they need to grow. Platforms like microLEAP are not just filling a gap, but transforming the way businesses access financing. Through Shariah-compliant and online solutions, we are fostering a more inclusive financial ecosystem that drives sustainable growth,” said Tunku Danny. “Through the Sarana scheme, we’re not just providing financing—we’re empowering businesses to grow, scale, and compete in an increasingly demanding environment. Invoice financing, in particular, is a game-changer for SMEs and contractors. It turns their unpaid invoices into immediate cash flow, ensuring they have the working capital needed to fulfil contracts, pay suppliers, and seize new opportunities.”

    microLEAP’s innovative approach is built on a foundation of robust risk management, ensuring the confidence of both borrowers and investors. The platform achieved a default rate of just 0.63% in 2024, a 41.1% improvement from 2023, reinforcing its reputation for reliability. Meanwhile, investor confidence surged, with a 61.2% increase in new investors joining the platform last year.

    As the only P2P financing platform with offices in Sabah, Sarawak, Johor, Penang, and Perak, microLEAP ensures SMEs across Malaysia can access financing tailored to their needs, regardless of location. This strategic reach is critical to advancing financial inclusion, particularly in rural areas, where businesses often struggle to secure funding.

  • Bursa Malaysia concludes first edition of Invest Malaysia 2025 series

    Bursa Malaysia concludes first edition of Invest Malaysia 2025 series

    Bursa Malaysia Berhad (“Bursa Malaysia”/ the “Exchange”), in collaboration with CIMB Group (CIMB) and HSBC Malaysia (HSBC) concludes the first edition of its Invest Malaysia 2025 series (“Invest Malaysia/ IM London 2025”). Themed “Malaysia’s Economic Resurgence, Driving ASEAN’s Growth”, Bursa Malaysia’s flagship capital market conference continues to promote Malaysia as a compelling investment destination, offering institutional investors and fund managers with valuable insights into Malaysia’s macroeconomic outlook, market prospects, and listed companies on the Exchange.

    As ASEAN Chair this year, Malaysia is championing the region’s role as an economic and diplomatic counterbalance in a fragmented global landscape. ASEAN’s openness and inclusivity, coupled with its USD2.8 trillion infrastructure investment needs by 2030, present significant opportunities in international collaboration.

    Present at the event, Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim highlighted Malaysia’s leadership in fostering harmonised approaches within ASEAN through initiatives like the ASEAN-Interconnected Sustainability Ecosystem (ASEAN-ISE), and emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to global trade and partnerships, exemplified by its BRICS collaboration and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ), which bolster regional growth and reinforce Malaysia’s position as a dynamic trading nation.

    During a fireside session in the event, YB Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry of Malaysia, (MITI), emphasised the resilience of Malaysia’s investment, industrial and export sectors amidst geopolitical shifts, while mentioning that industrial reforms in Malaysia would continue apace to ensure the nation’s long-term economic security, inclusivity and sustainability. He reiterated Malaysia’s neutral and non-aligned stance to maintain a healthy, open economy while upholding its foreign policy principles.

    The Minister also noted that Malaysia’s participation in BRICS would expand and diversify our markets, while the CPTPP agreement offers significant trade opportunities with the UK, eliminating 94% of tariffs and boosting key sectors like palm oil, electronics, and automotive. Additionally, the Minister shared the progress of the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, as well as key features of the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), and Green Investment Strategy (GIS). The NSS aims to attract RM500 billion in investments by 2030. The GIS, on the other hand, will attract investments in the green technology sector to improve the green investment ecosystem.

    Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift, CEO of Bursa Malaysia said, “Bursa Malaysia’s Invest Malaysia series continues to be highly relevant in enhancing Malaysia’s profile among global fund managers and institutional investors. Invest Malaysia London 2025 highlights Malaysia’s remarkable economic growth in recent years, driven by political stability and clear economic policies, to UK investors. It demonstrates the country’s determination to becoming a more innovative, competitive, prosperous, and sustainable nation.”

    “The Exchange remains committed to supporting Malaysia’s economic growth narrative and will continue to implement market and structural reforms to enhance Malaysia’s dynamism and competitiveness, while strengthening market confidence,” he added.

    Since the first Invest Malaysia in 2005, 59 Invest Malaysia Away editions have been held in major financial cities worldwide, with IM London 2025 marking the 60th Invest Malaysia Away edition. This year’s session was attended by approximately 200 delegates, including foreign fixed income, equity, and private equity investors, with a combined Asset Under Management (AUM) exceeding RM228 trillion (approximately USD50.7 trillion).

  • Key trading trends to watch in 2025

    Key trading trends to watch in 2025

    Developments such as Forex market volatility, rising commodity prices, and Southeast Asia’s economic growth are poised to reshape the trading landscape in 2025. Market participants need to be aware of these trends to develop strategic approaches and mitigate risks. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa broker, highlights key trading trends to expect in 2025.

    Currency markets are bracing for heightened volatility in 2025, driven by shifting global economic conditions and monetary policy adjustments. According to S&P Global’s Economic Outlook, slowing global growth, rising inflation, and divergent interest rate policies among major central banks are expected to weigh heavily on currency pairs like EURUSD and GBPUSD. These factors, combined with trade uncertainties, could disrupt Forex market liquidity, increasing short-term volatility and widening spreads.

    The U.S. dollar is expected to maintain its status as a safe-haven asset amid continued global uncertainties. Emerging markets, however, face potential pressure as currency depreciation risks rise, particularly in regions reliant on external financing. As a result, traders are likely to focus on hedging strategies and closely monitor monetary policy decisions from the U.S. Federal Reserve, European Central Bank, and Bank of England.

    Commodity markets are set for dynamic shifts in 2025, shaped by inflationary pressures, geopolitical risks, and the global energy transition. Gold, which saw strong demand in 2024 as a safe-haven asset, is projected to maintain its upward trajectory as global economic uncertainty persists. Analysts point to ongoing geopolitical tensions and a slowdown in economic growth as key drivers of gold’s appeal in the coming year.

    Meanwhile, oil markets are likely to experience continued volatility. Supply constraints, coupled with shifts in energy demand, could push prices higher. Additionally, green energy-related commodities like lithium, copper, and nickel are increasingly valuable as governments accelerate their renewable energy initiatives. Reports highlight that commodities essential for electric vehicle production and energy storage will see sustained demand growth, creating new opportunities for commodity traders.

    Southeast Asia remains a focal point for global trade and investment, driven by strong economic fundamentals and rapid digital transformation. Countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore are leading the charge, with the region’s GDP growth forecasted to outpace global averages in 2025.

    Indonesia’s digital economy continues to expand, supported by strong consumer adoption and increased investments in infrastructure. By 2025, Southeast Asia’s internet economy is expected to reach $330 billion, reflecting a steady rise in e-commerce, fintech, and online services. Malaysia, on the other hand, remains a significant player in electronics and renewable energy, with government policies aimed at enhancing infrastructure and attracting foreign investment. Singapore, as a financial hub, maintains its strategic role in driving innovation and green technology adoption.

    While trading opportunities are abundant, 2025 brings its share of challenges. Rising global debt levels, coupled with higher borrowing costs, present risks to both developed and emerging economies. Bain & Company’s 2024 report highlights concerns over potential recessions in major markets, which could disrupt trade flows and investor sentiment.

    Geopolitical conflicts and protectionist trade policies also remain key risks. Tensions in global supply chains, particularly between the U.S. and China, could impact commodity prices and currency markets. Traders must rely on robust risk management strategies, incorporating both technical and fundamental analysis to navigate these uncertainties.

    Trading in 2025 will be defined by the volatility of the Forex market, rising demand, and the strength of Southeast Asian economies. Traders are advised to acknowledge these and other trends in advance to adjust their long-term strategies accordingly. To facilitate trend watching, market players can rely on advanced tools that allow for faster and more accurate decision-making. Such tools include Space from OctaTrader, which provides predictive insights and expert strategies for traders. Such an approach allows for improved risk management amidst volatile markets.

  • ANGKASA and Zurich Takaful launch MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme

    ANGKASA and Zurich Takaful launch MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme

    ANGKASA, through its subsidiary MyANGKASA Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (MHSB), in collaboration with Zurich Takaful Malaysia Berhad and Zurich General Takaful Malaysia Berhad (collectively referred to as Zurich Takaful) has launched the MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme. This value-added product, which is part of ANGKASA’s Cooperative Credit System, is designed to enhance service quality, particularly for cooperatives and companies involved in the financial sector.

    ANGKASA President, Datuk Seri Dr. Abdul Fattah Abdullah, highlighted that the MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme serves as an affordable mechanism offering comprehensive protection for over 7.2 million cooperative members.

    “The scheme’s primary objective is to provide financial protection for cooperatives, companies, and members who finance loans through cooperatives or companies using ANGKASA’s Salary Deduction System (SPGA), in case of unforeseen events affecting borrowers,” he explained.

    “This scheme not only offers financial assistance to borrowers during disasters but also protects financiers by covering their financing to reduce risks of non-payment and arrears. Additionally, MyANGKASA Amanah Berhad, ANGKASA’s trust management arm, will act as the trustee and manager of the project through trust deeds signed by clients,” he added.

    “ANGKASA assures that the scheme will be managed with proper governance to ensure benefits are delivered directly to beneficiaries, along with additional protection features such as hibah (gifts), wasiat (wills), and inheritance management. This initiative sets itself apart from existing market products, offering unique advantages. Our collaboration with Zurich Takaful as a strategic partner is based on their proven excellence in management capabilities, service efficiency and claims payment reliability,” said Datuk Seri Dr. Abdul Fattah Abdullah during the launch of MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme at Wisma Ungku A. Aziz.

    Shamsul Azman, CEO of Zurich General Takaful Berhad, added, “In addition to benefits for death and permanent disability, Zurich Takaful also offers takaful protection for Involuntary Job Loss due to accidents.”

    Nur Fatihah Mustafa, CEO of Zurich Takaful Malaysia Berhad, highlighted that the MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme offers comprehensive coverage for both natural and accidental causes, ensuring that cooperative members are protected 24/7 worldwide against unforeseen circumstances.

    “This initiative is also in line with our brand ethos to ‘Care For What Matters,’ reflecting our ongoing commitment to safeguard Malaysians and empowering them to live confidently while striving for a brighter future” she added.

     

  • Funding Societies and foodpanda offer 2% per annum financing rates for Bumiputera merchants

    Funding Societies and foodpanda offer 2% per annum financing rates for Bumiputera merchants

    Funding Societies, Southeast Asia’s largest unified small and medium enterprise (SME) digital finance platform, has extended its partnership with Delivery Hero (M) Sdn Bhd [fka Foodpanda (M) Sdn Bhd] to offer exclusive financing for Bumiputera merchants. Eligible foodpanda merchants can access financing up to RM100,000 at a competitive 2% annual rate with a flexible financing tenor of up to 24 months. This limited-time initiative aims to empower local entrepreneurs with the capital to grow and succeed in a challenging market.

    Chai Kien Poon, Country Head, Funding Societies Malaysia, remarked, “The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) reported that Malaysia’s services sector achieved a total revenue of RM2.3 trillion in 2023, an 8.4% increase from RM2.1 trillion in 2022. Despite this growth, sub-sectors such as food and beverage (1.4%) have yet to recover to their pre-pandemic (2019) revenue levels. To support these businesses, particularly MSMEs, access to cash flow is crucial. We are hopeful that this partnership between Funding Societies and foodpanda can better assist and scale underserved, creditworthy SMEs in this industry.”

    “Furthermore, we are confident that this affordable financing can help food sellers to better restock supplies and prepare for upcoming seasonal growth amidst a potential surge in staple vegetable costs as a result of the recent floods and ahead of the festive season.”

    “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Funding Societies to offer this exclusive financing opportunity to our Bumiputera merchants. At foodpanda, we believe in empowering our merchants with the tools and resources they need to thrive in today’s challenging market. This initiative not only provides access to much-needed capital at an affordable rate but also reinforces our commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs, especially as they prepare for the upcoming festive season. Together, we aim to drive meaningful growth and resilience for our foodpanda merchant community,” said Tan Ming Luk, Managing Director, foodpanda Malaysia.

    Under this offer, Bumiputera SMEs can apply for Shariah-compliant financing with just two initial documents: identification documents (for directors and the company) and six months of bank statements. The application is fully digital, with decisions provided within days.

    Together, Funding Societies and foodpanda have assisted 500 foodpanda merchants and the latest collaboration aims to build on the momentum. Besides providing essential cash flow and growth capital, by lowering the cost of financing, the collaboration aims to level the playing field and support more underserved micro and small businesses to grow their business within the foodpanda network.

  • SUNWAY REIT COMPLETES THE ACQUISITION OF SUNWAY KLUANG MALL IN JOHOR

    Sunway REIT Management Sdn. Bhd., the Manager of Sunway Real Estate Investment Trust (“Sunway REIT”), is pleased to announce that Sunway REIT has, on 30 December 2024, successfully completed the acquisition of Sunway Kluang Mall (formerly known as Kluang Mall).

    Sunway Kluang Mall is located in the heart of Johor, making it a strategic town connecting to major towns such as Johor Bahru, Muar, and Batu Pahat. It provides excellent connectivity to other parts of Peninsular Malaysia through major highways and railways. With a population of more than 320,000 and a potential of approximately 1 million additional population in central Johor, the Kluang district serves as a preferred retail and lifestyle destination in the region.

    Sunway Kluang Mall is presently 99% occupied, with over 130 tenants. The retail mall offers a diverse array of retail offerings, including international and homegrown brands, food and beverage (F&B) outlets, as well as entertainment and lifestyle services. Anchored by Pacific Hypermarket & Department Store, the mall’s extensive offerings such as health and beauty services, cinema and bowling centre enhance the overall retail experience.

    Sunway Kluang Mall is expected to be yield-accretive to Sunway REIT’s portfolio with an estimated initial Net Property Income (“NPI”) yield of 7%.

    Clement Chen, the Chief Executive Officer of Sunway REIT Management Sdn. Bhd., commented, “We are pleased to end the year with the completion of another acquisition. This fortifies Sunway REIT’s portfolio as one of the leading REIT in Malaysia. We strategically expanded our presence in Johor, which is a high-growth state and magnet for investment.”

    He added, “Building on Sunway’s strong brand and proven track record in retail management, we see opportunities to further enhance the mall through tenancy optimisation, proactive management, and asset enhancement initiatives (AEI) that greatly increases the property’s growth potential.”

  • Southeast Asia’s crypto revolution: Venkate exchange surpasses 1 million users

    Southeast Asia’s crypto revolution: Venkate exchange surpasses 1 million users

    In a significant milestone that underscores its dominance in the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors, Venkate Exchange has proudly announced that its user base has exceeded one million. Venkate serves a rapidly growing community with a daily trading volume surpassing $1 billion.

    Security and advanced technology remain at the core of Venkate’s operations, with features including:

    • Advanced Custody Solutions: Leveraging Multi-Party Computation (MPC) wallet technology alongside partnerships with top-tier custodians.
    • Robust Risk Controls: Implementing on-chain monitoring systems and stringent KYC/AML compliance to ensure a secure trading environment.
    • Decentralised Insurance Protocols: Protecting users against contract risks and cyberattacks, thereby enhancing trading confidence.

    Venkate Exchange continues to use its extensive global network and deep regional insights to significantly boost the success of Web3 projects:

    • Global Partnerships: Collaboration with over 1,000 key opinion leaders and hundreds of media outlets maximise visibility and impact.
    • Localised Community Building: Customised community initiatives in Southeast Asia boost project recognition and engagement.
      • Proven Results: Partner projects report up to a 300% increase in exposure and a staggering 1,000% growth in user engagement within the region.

    Venkate remains dedicated to propelling the digital economy in the region forward with a focus on:

    • Diversity: Offering a broad array of assets for tailored investment strategies.
    • Sustainability: Fostering impactful and ethical investment practices.
    • Transparency and Reliability: Ensuring open communication and consistent, robust asset protection

    With achievements ranging from monumental user growth to pioneering the tokenisation of meteorites, Venkate continues to deliver unparalleled value and innovation to its users.