Ringgit ends higher against US dollar on softer Treasury yields ahead of Jackson Hole

On August 26, the Malaysian ringgit strengthened against the US dollar, reaching 4.0240/0280, following a dip in US Treasury yields. This occurred in anticipation of the upcoming Jackson Hole symposium hosted by the US Federal Reserve. The market was closed the previous day, coinciding with Prophet Muhammad's birthday. Global strategist Stephen Innes attributed the ringgit's rise to softer US Treasury yields and additional local portfolio inflows.

The upcoming symposium, spanning Aug 27-29, is closely monitored for potential insights into the Fed's future interest rate decisions. If the Fed hints at rate cuts, the US dollar may weaken, benefiting the ringgit. However, the unpredictable factor remains the Jackson Hole symposium, where Fed Chair Kevin Warsh's statements could sway the market.

Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist, Dr. Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid, noted the ringgit's gain against the US dollar as the likelihood of a September rate hike by the Fed appears slim. The focus now lies on Warsh's speech during the symposium, where any forward-looking guidance would be beneficial for the ringgit. The ringgit also gained against other major currencies, including the Japanese yen, British pound, euro, Singapore dollar, Indonesian rupiah, Philippine peso, and Thai baht.