Ringgit opens higher on Budget 2027 optimism, but West Asia tensions and US inflation cloud outlook

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 13 — The Malaysian ringgit opened higher against the US dollar on Monday, fueled by optimism surrounding the upcoming Budget 2027. By 8 am, the ringgit was trading marginally stronger at 4.0815/0900, up from Monday's close of 4.0820/0865. However, Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam warned of potential challenges ahead.

He cited rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia, particularly the missile attacks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which could lead to further disruption in crude oil supplies. Dr Afzanizam explained that Brent crude oil prices had increased by 1.38% to $106.16 per barrel, and the US Dollar Index had risen by 0.35% to 102.573 points.

Furthermore, the US Consumer Price Index is expected to rise to 3.6% in September, up from 3.4% in August, according to consensus estimates. Dr Afzanizam suggested that these factors may cause the ringgit to trade within a narrow range in the near future. The local currency showed mixed performance against major and ASEAN currencies at the opening.

It strengthened against the British pound, euro, and Singapore dollar, while weakening against the Japanese yen and Philippine peso.