Strong global markets lift EPF investment income 48pc to RM57.5b in first half of 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 17 — The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) reported a 48% increase in total investment income to RM57.50 billion in the first half of 2026 (1H 2026), up from RM38.92 billion in the same period last year. The increase is attributed to unrealised mark-to-market gains and losses, primarily caused by fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.

In the second quarter of 2026 (2Q 2026), investment income reached RM29.77 billion, a 44% rise from RM20.61 billion in the same quarter a year ago. Equities income surged by 52% to RM20.94 billion, driven by a strong recovery in global equity markets and investor confidence in the artificial intelligence investment supercycle. Fixed income instruments contributed RM6.91 billion, while Malaysian government securities and equivalents, loans, and bonds provided stable returns.

Real estate and infrastructure generated RM1.30 billion, and money market instruments added RM620 million. EPF's total investment assets for 2Q 2026 stood at RM1.54 trillion, with 39% invested abroad. International investments contributed RM19.29 billion, accounting for 65% of the total investment income. EPF CEO Ahmad Zulqarnain Onn noted that the fund capitalized on strong global equity markets while adhering to a disciplined long-term investment strategy, but warned that members should temper expectations for similar returns in the second half of 2026.