Ringgit Breaks RM4 Barrier Against USD, Signaling Stronger Malaysian Economy

The Malaysian ringgit has shattered the psychological RM4.00 threshold against the US dollar, reaching RM3.99 last Friday—its strongest level since 2018. This surge is fueled by Bank Negara Malaysia’s decision to hold the overnight policy rate at 2.75%, coupled with a depreciating USD amid high US debt and Federal Reserve’s liquidity measures. Public Investment Bank’s 1H 2026 Market Strategy report, released on December 23, 2025, predicted this strengthening due to eroding confidence in the USD as a safe haven.

Ringgit Breaks RM4 Barrier

Historically, a strong ringgit hurt the FBM KLCI, but recent trends show a positive correlation as foreign funds return to Malaysia’s stable policies and robust growth. The bank favors blue-chip stocks like Maybank, CIMB, TNB, and Telekom, while in consumer sectors, Spritzer and CCK are top picks for investors positioning for further FX gains.

The ringgit’s breakthrough below RM4.00 highlights structural USD weaknesses, attracting capital to Malaysia and inverting past market correlations for a bullish outlook

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