BNM keeps OPR at 2.75% amid global uncertainties
KUALA LUMPUR (March 5): Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has kept its benchmark overnight policy rate (OPR) unchanged at 2.
Govt may rethink preferential withholding tax as REIT sector deemed ‘mature’
KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 5): The government is reviewing whether to renew the preferential withholding tax on dividends from real estate investment trusts (REITs), as the sector is now considered mature and commercially viable, said Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.
BNM keeps overnight policy rate unchanged as widely expected amid resilient economy, tame inflation
The policy rate has remained unchanged since July when BNM sprang a surprise with a 25-basis-point reduction in what the central bank described as a “pre-emptive measure” to support economic growth.
No further cuts seen through 2026 as BNM stands pat on OPR
MBSB Research noted that BNM struck a “slightly more confident view” on Malaysia’s economic prospects at its September meeting, compared to the more cautious tone in July that prompted the pre-emptive cut to 2.
BNM likely to stand pat on policy rate after July’s surprise, economists say
“Despite external risks, BNM remains upbeat on domestic demand, supported by a strong labour market, policy measures, and sustained investment from infrastructure and development initiatives,” RHB Investment Bank said.
BNM likely to keep OPR unchanged at 2.75% until mid-2026 amid global headwinds—analyst
“I think the central bank wants to wait and see whether the July rate cut will support economic growth.
REITs see sentiment boost from OPR cut, but valuations already reflected move—analysts
Malaysian REITs would still leverage on robust domestic spending, lower bond yields and active inorganic growth strategies, according to RHB Investment Bank Bhd.
Economists split on further OPR cuts in 2025 as BNM turns dovish
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ Research) in a note said BNM has historically only made back-to-back cuts during major shocks such as the Covid-19 pandemic or the Global Financial Crisis.
BNM may move to shield economy from external headwinds, economists lean towards rate cut
About half of 23 economists polled predict a cut from 3%, while the rest expect the central bank to stand pat.
Moody’s: BNM likely to hold OPR at 3%, September cut dependent on inflation and Fed's move
"If the Fed stays on hold for longer, or the unwinding of fuel subsidies sends inflation too high, BNM may be content to keep the OPR at 3%.
