Morning Brief

As Melaka heads to the polls on November 14, DAP must defend its existing strongholds while contesting three additional seats allocated under the Pakatan Harapan banner. This comes as the entry of Bersatu and Bersama shifts the electoral arithmetic, introducing multi-cornered vote-splitting into what were once predictable races. Kerk Chee Yee, DAP Melaka Publicity Secretary and candidate for N16 Ayer Keroh, joins The Morning Run to unpack the party's strategy. He explains why DAP opted to retain incumbents in core urban seats while deploying familiar community ground teams in previously lost constituencies. He also addresses why Ayer Keroh is no longer guaranteed safe territory under a four-way contest, weighing the risk of new entrant Bersama cannibalising Pakatan Harapan's base against Bersatu’s potential to disrupt Malay voter support from 2021. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia’s manufacturing sector returned to expansion in October, with the S&P Global PMI climbing to 51, its strongest reading since April. New orders surged at one of their fastest rates in four and a half years on the back of resilient export demand, yet manufacturers' business confidence dropped to a six-month low. Jacob Lee Chor Kok, President of the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing (FMM), joins The Morning Run to unpack this disconnect. He explains how the rebound is concentrated in AI-linked sectors such as electrical and electronics (E&E) and semiconductors, while traditional industries like textiles, furniture, and food processing grapple with squeezed margins and regional competition. He also breaks down why persistent supply chain disruptions and geopolitical fallout in West Asia are forcing factories to abandon "just-in-time" supply chains for a "just-in-case" inventory approach. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth…

Hong Kong's stock market is facing a sharp divide between its success in attracting new listings and the disappointing performance of Chinese companies already trading there. The Hang Seng Tech Index has fallen more than 30% this year, even as Hong Kong ranks among the world's leading IPO markets. Yuan Yiu Tsai, Equity Portfolio Manager at Eastspring Investments, examines why Chinese stocks listed in Hong Kong are underperforming their mainland counterparts, what's behind the technology sector's weakness and why companies continue to seek listings in the city. We also explore the slowdown in IPO performance and where investors might find opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melaka heads to the polls on November 14, with 79 candidates competing for 28 state assembly seats in an election featuring straight fights and multi-cornered contests. With Barisan Nasional seeking to retain power, Pakatan Harapan looking to make gains and Perikatan Nasional facing a changing political landscape, how will shifting alliances and divided votes shape the contest? Adib Zalkapli, Managing Director of Viewfinder Global Affairs, examines the key battlegrounds, the significance of PAS aligning with BN, and the challenges facing emerging political parties. We also explore the local issues and voter concerns that could influence the outcome. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A reported US$6 billion cryptocurrency heist at Binance, the world's largest crypto exchange, has raised serious questions about the security of digital assets and the protection available to investors. Although Binance says it has recovered 90% of the stolen funds and will cover remaining losses, the incident has renewed concerns about vulnerabilities across the industry. Zhong Yan Chan, Head of Research at CoinGecko, examines how such attacks happen, what investors should look for when choosing an exchange, and whether using a locally regulated platform offers Malaysians greater protection. We also explore what the industry must do to restore investor confidence. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Located just 50 kilometres from the northern tip of Sabah, the Philippine island of Balabac is undergoing a military expansion, including a 3KM airstrip accessible to US forces under the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Dato' Dr Ilango Karuppannan, former Malaysian ambassador and adjunct senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), joins The Morning Brief on The Morning Run to unpack the development. He explains why the primary concern lies in indirect economic disruption and diplomatic coercion rather than a direct military strike, how an enhanced naval presence could also deter regional piracy, and what happens to Balabac's infrastructure if shifting geopolitical tides leave it entirely in Manila's hands. Drawing on past precedents like the Proliferation Security Initiative, he examines whether Malaysia's non-aligned stance can withstand direct superpower confrontation. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with…

When Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revisited the corporate fallout of the late 1990s Asian financial crisis in Parliament, he framed the exits of prominent business figures as the work of a "corporate mafia" run by political rivals. Emmanuel Samarathisa, founder of The Malaysianist, joins The Morning Run to unpack the Prime Minister’s trip down memory lane. He breaks down the resilient nature of family-controlled capital, how corporate patronage has modernised from direct asset transfers into institutional influence, and why Masayoshi Son’s US$50 billion AI pledge demands healthy skepticism given SoftBank's history of walking away from grand announcements. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia wants to double renewables’ share of Peninsular Malaysia’s energy mix, from 11% in 2025 to 22% by 2035. Data centres must now source at least 30% of their energy from renewables and meet a 30% local content requirement. Ahmad Maghfur Usman, Equity Research Analyst at Nomura Securities, explains what this means for utilities, data centre operators and the supply chain, the outlook for Tenaga Nasional’s earnings and dividends, and his top picks in the sector. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Indonesia is facing a wave of student-led protests over the government's handling of devastating forest fires, with public anger extending to spending priorities, employment and civil liberties. As haze spreads across Southeast Asia, President Prabowo Subianto faces growing scrutiny over his environmental policies and flagship programmes, including free school meals. Southeast Asia-based journalist Erin Cook examines what is driving the demonstrations, whether younger Indonesians are becoming disillusioned with the government, and how Prabowo is responding to mounting criticism. We also explore whether these protests could develop into a sustained political movement ahead of the 2029 election. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US Federal Reserve has held rates at 3.75% to 4% with inflation still above target, and two officials pushing for a hike. With the midterm elections on 3 November and growing questions over the returns on AI spending, investors face a crowded risk landscape. Lawrence Hatheway, Head of Research at Franklin Templeton Institute, discusses what is priced in, whether a divided Congress helps or hurts markets, and where the opportunities lie heading into 2027. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israel's election has produced no clear winner, with Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc falling short of a parliamentary majority and Arab parties emerging as potential kingmakers. As coalition negotiations intensify, the possibility of a government led by Gadi Eisenkot raises questions about Israel's political direction and its relationship with the Palestinians. Dr James Dorsey, Adjunct Senior Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, examines Netanyahu's chances of remaining in power, the role Arab parties could play in forming a government, and whether a change in leadership would alter Israel's security policies, relations with Washington and efforts to rebuild an economy battered by years of war. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia is finalising nationwide guidelines for short-term rental accommodation, with proposed requirements for operator registration, local authority licensing and a 180-night annual rental limit. But could tighter regulation undermine property investments and restrict owners' ability to generate rental income? Ai Cheng Chan, Past President of the Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents and CEO of SKB Realty, examines the implications for property owners, condominium residents and booking platforms. We discuss compliance costs, enforcement challenges, potential legal disputes and whether the proposed framework can strike a fair balance between protecting residents and supporting Malaysia's short-term rental market. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia's producer prices surged 12% year-on-year in September, driven by soaring global oil prices and rising costs in mining and manufacturing. Yet consumer inflation remains relatively subdued, with businesses absorbing much of the pressure through thinner profit margins. Nazmi Idrus, Head of Economics at CGS International Securities, examines how long companies and government subsidies can shield consumers from higher prices, and whether inflationary pressures could eventually force Bank Negara Malaysia to raise interest rates. We also discuss weakening factory activity and whether Malaysia's stronger-than-expected economic growth can withstand these mounting cost pressures. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Korea’s economy grew faster than expected in the third quarter, fuelled by booming demand for AI chips and stronger equipment investment. John Bromhead, Senior Economist at Moody’s Analytics discusses these numbers against a backdrop of contracting private consumption contracting, and what this means for interest rates and the outlook ahead. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PAS is seeking to strengthen its economic credentials through SG4, an initiative bringing together Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu and Perlis to attract investment and accelerate development. With ambitions spanning manufacturing, green technology, logistics and infrastructure, the four states hope to establish themselves as alternative investment destinations to Selangor and Johor. But can these plans move beyond memorandums of understanding to deliver tangible results? We examine SG4's funding strategy, opportunities arising from the East Coast Rail Link, the challenges of federal-state cooperation and whether the initiative can generate sustainable economic growth and jobs. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Americans head to the polls on Nov 3 in elections that will determine whether Donald Trump’s Republicans retain control of Congress. Bryan DeAngelis, Partner and Head of the Washington Office of Penta Group shares his views on what's at stake for all parties with inflation, the economic fallout from the Iran war and concerns over election integrity dominating the campaign. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China’s CSI 300 has slipped into bear market territory, wiping out trillions of dollars in market value as mainland equities lag behind other major Asian markets. Marvin Chen, an equity analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence share his outlook on Chinese equities' valuations with corporate earnings under pressure and the country’s tech stocks losing ground as well as if valuations are now attractive enough to draw investors back. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melaka's 28 state seats are up for grabs when polling day takes place Nov 14th. Its election is also shaping up to be an important test of Malaysia’s political alliances ahead of GE16, with Barisan Nasional, Pakatan Harapan and Perikatan Nasional negotiate seat allocations. Dr Oh Ei Sun, Principal Adviser at the Pacific Research Centre, shares his analysis on these developments. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has secured a historic fourth term as Brazil's president, narrowly defeating Flávio Bolsonaro in a closely contested runoff. But with Bolsonaro challenging the result and conservative parties strengthening their position in Congress, Lula faces a difficult political landscape. We examine what the election reveals about Brazil's deep divisions, whether Lula can deliver on his economic and social promises amid mounting public debt, and how his victory could reshape relations with the United States. With no clear successor emerging, questions also remain about the future of Lula's Workers' Party and the enduring influence of the Bolsonaro movement. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sarawak's Legislative Assembly dissolves today, and with GPS holding 76 of 82 seats and a fresh RM14.8 billion election budget passed, the outcome is hardly in doubt. The real question is the margin of victory, whether controversies over a suspended DAP assemblyman and a VIP jet lease will dent the ruling coalition, and what a landslide means for the federal government ahead of GE16. Dr. James Chin, Professor of Asian Studies at the University of Tasmania, joins The Morning Run to unpack why the opposition's chances depend on avoiding split votes, and identifies the one urban seat genuinely up for grabs. He breaks down Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s quiet KPI, what a strengthened Sarawak bloc could extract on MA63, and whether GPS would ultimately prefer dealing with a Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim-led government or an UMNO–PAS alliance under Dato' Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year's haze is worse than usual, and pressure is hitting palm oil and forestry producers from three directions at once. Khor Yu Leng, Director and Senior Economist at Segi Enam Advisors, joins The Morning Run to unpack those forces. She discusses why satellite hotspots show where a fire started but not who lit it, breaks down the severe drought driving the blazes, explains why palm oil yields could drop months down the line, and questions whether Singapore's legal notices can move the needle without cooperation from Jakarta. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia has approved its first export of unprocessed rare earths under a new regulatory framework, signalling a shift in its approach to developing a strategically important industry. With growing interest from American investors and intensifying competition between the US and China for critical minerals, Malaysia faces a choice between exporting raw materials and building a higher-value domestic processing industry. We examine the opportunities for investment, technology transfer and skilled employment, the potential benefits of ASEAN cooperation, and whether Malaysia can develop its rare earth resources without compromising environmental safeguards. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia hosts around 130,000 registered Rohingya refugees, and unofficial estimates put the number above 200,000. Indonesia hosts fewer than 2,600, and Thailand fewer than 500. With other countries falling short on their promises to resettle refugees, Malaysia has been left to carry much of the load. We speak to Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman about how Malaysia can get more international support, and how to balance security and humanity at home. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysian REITs are usually bought for steady income, but this year the sector has lagged the broader market by a wide margin. Rising bond yields and the end of the withholding tax break for retail investors have made REIT payouts look less attractive, and Budget 2027 didn’t bring that break back. So where does the sector go from here, and which corners still look promising? We speak to Aidil Puzi, Equity Research Analyst at RHB Investment Bank. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zetrix AI Founder Wong Thean Soon’s stake collapse below 2% has breached a covenant on its RM2 billion Sukuk. So what happens next? Emmanuel Samarathisa, founder of The Malaysianist, joins The Morning Run to trace the four-step downfall of Zetrix, from market rumours that wiped out billions in capitalisation to systemic margin calls. He highlights three critical areas demanding greater scrutiny, and addresses a critical question: who, if anyone, ultimately takes control of a listed concession holder with no controlling owner left? Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israel heads to the polls on October 27 in an election that could determine Benjamin Netanyahu's political future and the influence of the country's far-right parties. With neither major political bloc assured of a governing majority, Arab-led parties could play a decisive role in forming the next government. We examine growing political mobilisation among Palestinian citizens of Israel, the potential concessions needed to secure their support, and whether a change in leadership would bring meaningful differences in policy towards Gaza, Palestinian statehood and the rights of Palestinians living in Israel. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ASEAN stock markets have struggled to keep pace with their North Asian peers, with the MSCI ASEAN index underperforming the broader Asia ex-Japan benchmark by more than 10% this year. Yet performance across the region has been sharply divided, with Thailand and Singapore leading while Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and the Philippines lag behind. We examine what's driving these differences, the impact of foreign fund outflows, why Malaysia's strong economic fundamentals have yet to translate into stock market gains, and whether ASEAN can attract investors beyond the AI-driven rally in North Asia. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia's worsening haze is beginning to affect tourism, with inbound operators reporting cancelled trips, fewer group bookings and growing concerns among overseas travel agents. As unhealthy air quality disrupts outdoor activities and threatens visitor confidence, the industry faces another challenge in meeting its target of 47 million international visitors this year. We examine the financial impact on tourism businesses, whether lost bookings can be recovered, the risks to Malaysia's reputation as a travel destination and what measures are needed to protect the industry from recurring transboundary haze. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government has set up a task force led by the Attorney General to probe alleged “corporate mafia” activity, with a public report promised in three months. It brings together the MACC, police, Bank Negara, the SC and LHDN, though some of these agencies have themselves faced allegations. Can it stay independent, reach politically connected players, and protect minority shareholders who may have lost out? We speak to Anand Raj, President of the Malaysian Bar. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The World Food Programme is cutting monthly food aid for 500,000 people in Gaza as funding runs dry. A year into the ceasefire, families still depend heavily on aid, and getting supplies in remains a struggle. With the WFP warning it needs US$450 million just to keep critical operations running for six months, who fills the gap? We speak to Dato’ Dr. Ahmad Faizal Mohd Perdaus, President of MERCY Malaysia. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Americans head to the polls on November 3 in midterm elections that will determine control of Congress for the remainder of President Donald Trump's term. With his approval ratings under pressure, rising living costs frustrating voters and Democrats seeking to overturn narrow Republican majorities, both parties face a critical electoral test. We examine the key battleground states, shifting voter demographics, the importance of turnout and how the results could reshape Trump's ability to govern, influence his legislative agenda and set the direction of American politics over the next two years. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Registrar of Societies has deregistered Perikatan Nasional after ruling that the coalition's response to a show-cause notice failed to adequately address the concerns raised. Dr Syaza Shukri, Associate Professor of Political Science at the International Islamic University Malaysia, discusses how this latest development might reshape coalition politics and if it might impact upcoming elections. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forest and peat fires in Indonesia have once again brought the regional haze crisis into focus, raising questions about the role of plantation companies and the effectiveness of fire prevention efforts. Rashyid Redza Anwarudin, Chief Sustainability Officer of SD Guthrie Bhd, discusses the company's response and what more the palm oil industry can do to prevent recurring fires. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China's economy grew 4.5% year-on-year in the third quarter, slightly ahead of expectations. Dig deeper and we see exports remaining a key growth driver, consumer spending is still subdued and the property downturn continues to weigh. Denise Cheok, Assistant Director and Economist at Moody's Analytics, examines China's economic outlook and the policy challenges facing Beijing. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What began as student protests over teacher shortages and deteriorating school facilities has escalated into nationwide unrest, fuelled by anger over the cost of living and public services, leading to rioting and looting. Dr Benjamin Barton, Head of the School of Politics, International Relations & Economics, University of Nottingham Malaysia, shares his insights. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tesla's long-awaited Roadster is finally available for reservation in Malaysia, with deposits reaching more than RM1 million despite production not being expected until 2028. Promising extraordinary acceleration and even the ability to briefly leave the ground, the electric supercar raises questions about Tesla's ability to deliver after years of delays. We examine the financial risks for Malaysian buyers, potential import duties, regulatory hurdles and whether the Roadster can compete in Malaysia's luxury car market while Tesla faces growing competition from more affordable EVs. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia's tech stocks just had a rough week as a global AI sell-off spooked investors. The worry centres on how AI infrastructure is being financed, with CoreWeave's borrowing costs surging and questions mounting over whether debt-funded data centre spending can keep going. If that cycle slows, the question is how hard Malaysia's semiconductor supply chain gets hit, and how fast. Peter Lim, Chief Research Officer at Trident Analytics, breaks down the one financing detail he says actually matters for judging how risky this debt really is, and why he still isn't expecting a broader slowdown despite the volatility. He walks through which part of Malaysia's chip industry sits closest to the AI action, and which sits furthest from it. Along the way: why he thinks local tech valuations look expensive on one measure and attractive on another, and what that tension means for investors deciding whether to buy the dip. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Indonesia's stock market plunged over 11% following an MSCI proposal to downgrade the country to Standalone Market status, alongside markets like Palestine and Lebanon, raising fears of billions in foreign capital outflows ahead of a final decision in June 2027. Meanwhile, South Korea's KOSPI remains under pressure, falling around 11% over the past week despite record earnings from semiconductor heavyweights Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. Terence Ng, Associate Director of Equities at AIIMAN Asset Management, examines the catalysts behind these regional moves. He analyses the four macro forces pressuring the AI trade, explains why Samsung and SK Hynix's strong fundamentals failed to stem investor selling, and assesses whether Indonesia's MSCI review poses contagion risks for neighboring ASEAN markets. Plus, an evaluation of TSMC's record third-quarter results and what data center power availability reveals about the longevity of the AI buildout. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for…

The IMF is warning of mounting global debt, rising borrowing costs and slowing growth across Asia, with the region's expansion forecast to ease from 4.8% this year to 4.4% in 2027. Higher energy prices, tighter financial conditions and uncertainty surrounding the AI investment boom are adding to the risks. We speak to Vishrut Rana, Senior Economist for Asia-Pacific at S&P Global Ratings, about the key concerns emerging from the IMF and World Bank meetings, China's economic slowdown, Malaysia's fiscal resilience and what lies ahead for the region. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia's economy grew by a stronger-than-expected 5.3% in July and August, marking its second consecutive quarter of beating forecasts. Felicia Ling, Chief Economist at Hong Leong Investment Bank, discusses the key growth drivers, sectoral challenges and the outlook for economic growth and interest rates, amid current economic challenges. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget 2027 trims Malaysia's fiscal deficit target to 3.3% of GDP from 3.6%, but credit rating agencies evaluate more than headline figures. With government debt projected near 74% of GDP in 2027, well above the 57% median for 'BBB'-rated sovereigns, The Morning Run speaks with Kathleen Chen, Associate Director in Fitch Ratings' Sovereigns team, to assess the budget. She breaks down the fiscal levers Fitch is monitoring most closely and outlines what separates a credible, sustainable fiscal path from a fragile one. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget 2027 extends the stamp duty waiver for first-time buyers of homes up to RM500,000, and widens it to cover purchases from abandoned housing projects. Developers have welcomed the incentives, but say rising construction costs, compliance charges and a higher minimum wage threaten to squeeze margins and push prices up. So will these measures actually make homes more affordable, or just cushion demand? We speak to Datuk Zaini Yusoff, President of the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association (REHDA) Malaysia. Brought to you by Mah Sing. Reinvent Spaces. Enhance Life. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TSMC reported another record-breaking quarter driven by relentless demand for AI chips, with Q3 revenue surging 41% year-on-year to US$46.7 billion and net profit margins reaching an extraordinary 51%. The Morning Run team breaks down TSMC’s latest earnings numbers. The conversation examines the massive US$60 billion to US$64 billion capex budget, aggressive global expansion, and production bottlenecks, as well as what these developments mean for Malaysia's OSAT ecosystem. Plus, a look at the quiet cost behind TSMC's US expansion. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget 2027 has been dubbed an SME-friendly budget, with RM57 billion in financing and guarantees, lower corporate tax rates and exemptions from the upcoming minimum wage increase. But with smaller businesses facing rising operating costs and tight profit margins, will these measures provide meaningful relief? We hear from Datuk William Ng, National President of SAMENTA, about access to financing, wage pressures, AI adoption and what the government must prioritise to help Malaysian SMEs become more competitive. Brought to you by Mah Sing. Reinvent Spaces. Enhance Life. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia is considering allowing registered refugees to work in sectors facing critical labour shortages, potentially offering businesses much-needed workers while giving refugees a legal means of supporting themselves. But previous attempts have faced implementation challenges, and concerns remain over exploitation, job competition and border management. We speak to Joanne Chua, Executive Director of Asylum Access Malaysia, about the safeguards needed to make refugee employment viable, the gaps in Malaysia’s refugee protection framework and the implications of proposed repatriation arrangements with Myanmar. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Magnificent 7 label is cracking. Between 2023 and 2025, these mega-cap tech stocks returned roughly double the S&P 500 and accounted for a third of the index by weight. Today, that unified trajectory has reversed, the group is trailing the broader benchmark and stock performances are diverging, with Nvidia and Apple surging while Tesla remains in negative territory. Dan Ives, Senior Managing Director and Analyst at Yorkville Ives & Co, joins us to break down why these tech giants now follow individual narratives rather than a single group trade. He examines the tug-of-war between Meta's heavy AI CapEx and investor patience, Apple’s strategy to monetise AI without hyperscaler spending, and why Microsoft holds the edge over Amazon and Google. Plus, a look at Nvidia’s valuation metrics and why a potential SpaceX deal could fundamentally redefine Tesla's future. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Education remains the largest recipient of government spending in Budget 2027, with the Education Ministry allocated nearly RM69 billion, 4% more from 2026. Nina Adlan Disney, Managing Director of LeapEd Services, shares her insights into whether or not Budget 2027 adequately addresses the needs of students and teachers and what more is needed to improve the quality of education in Malaysia. Brought to you by Mah Sing. Reinvent Spaces. Enhance Life. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forest and peatland fires in Indonesia continue to damage the environment and send haze across Southeast Asia. A recent report by Greenpeace and Pantau Gambut has identified Malaysian and Singapore-linked companies among the entities connected to the fires. Albert Bansa, Greenpeace Malaysia Environmental Campaigner, takes us through the report. The Morning Brief is brought to you by CIMB Private Wealth. Move your wealth forward with personalised wealth advisory and priority access to investment opportunities. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget 2027 sets Malaysia’s development expenditure at RM83 billion, a bump up from last year, yet below the 13th Malaysia Plan's annual average. UOB Kay Hian Senior Equity Analyst Jack Goh joins us to evaluate where contract flow actually lands. The conversation dives into the post-election timing of major infrastructure rollouts, the distinct edge Borneo-based contractors hold over peninsular rivals for Sabah and Sarawak allocations, and how minimum wage hikes will hit builder margins. Plus, an examination of the two private-sector segments driving record order books while mega-projects remain on hold. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In June, Amova Asset Management completed its acquisition of AHAM Capital. The Japanese asset manager now controls a business with over RM100 billion in assets under administration. Stefanie Drews, President and CEO of Amova Asset Management Group, joins us to explain why an acquisition in Malaysia made sense over other Asian markets, what role AHAM will play in the group's broader regional strategy, and whether we could see the brands eventually merge under Amova. Amova's CEO views Malaysia much like Japan: a market where household wealth sits largely in bank deposits rather than capital markets, presenting enormous long-term upside. She also details the functional capabilities Amova plans to expand in Malaysia, the brand strategy ahead, and how key Shariah-compliant investment capabilities factor into Amova's bigger global plans. Image Credit: Shutterstock See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.