FBM KLCI Gains But Outlook Cautious Ahead of State Elections

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — The FBM KLCI rose 0.60% to 1,693.43 on Friday, supported by selective blue‑chip buying despite mixed sentiment. Market breadth remained negative, with 487 advancers against 656 decliners. Finance Services (+1.22%), Energy (+0.48%) and Industrial Products & Services (+0.16%) led gains, while Utilities (-1.78%), Construction (-1.37%) and Property (-0.96%) dragged.

Globally, U.S. equities tumbled, with the Nasdaq Composite (-4.18%) leading losses, followed by the S&P 500 (-2.64%) and Dow Jones (-1.35%). Semiconductor counters plunged, with the Dow Jones U.S. Semiconductors Index down 8.45% after strong nonfarm payrolls data lifted Treasury yields, sparking profit‑taking in AI‑linked stocks.

Outlook Cautious

European markets also weakened, with the STOXX Europe 600 (-0.29%) pressured by Middle East uncertainties and Broadcom’s disappointing outlook. Asian bourses followed suit, led by South Korea’s Kospi (-5.54%), while the CSI300 (-1.79%), Nikkei 225 (-1.31%) and Hang Seng (-1.15%) also retreated.

Looking ahead, sentiment is expected to remain cautious amid higher‑for‑longer U.S. interest rate expectations and persistent foreign fund outflows. Domestic fundamentals and stable monetary policy may cushion downside risks, with investors monitoring Johor and Negeri Sembilan elections for political signals. Sector focus remains on Utilities, Construction and Financial Services, while Technology could stay volatile.