Still in consolidation

Bucking the downturn across the regional markets, the FBM KLCI ended modestly higher as continued selling in glove heavyweights were offset by buying support in IHH and selected banking heavyweights. We believe the local bourse should trade in an upward bias tone following the change of MCO status for Selangor, Johor, Penang and KL. Meanwhile, the number of Covid-19 confirmed cases daily has dropped to year-to-date low. However, note that the negative sentiment on Wall Street overnight could cap the upside potential on the local front.

The FBM KLCI ended the first trading session of March in red amid continued selling pressure in glove heavyweights following further developments on Covid-19 vaccine. Although the arrival of the Covid-19 vaccine has dented the sentiment on healthcare sector, the local bourse was supported by the positive sentiment on the recovery-theme sectors. Meanwhile, we also expect 5G and tech stocks to trade firmer following overnight Nasdaq performance.