Infinity 9 Program Set to Transform Retail Investing in Singapore and Malaysia

Admin Feb 14, 2025

A leading Southeast Asian financial institution is preparing to launch the highly anticipated Infinity 9 Program in collaboration with a prominent global banking entity. This strategic partnership aims to significantly enhance institutional efficiency, providing retail investors in Singapore and Malaysia with access to trading activities traditionally reserved for larger market players. By integrating local expertise with global reach, the initiative seeks to offer a seamless, optimized investment experience that benefits individuals across both markets.

By uniting expertise and resources, this program will streamline financial services, equipping investors with sophisticated tools, strategies, and financial instruments that were once out of reach for the average participant. The goal is to make high-level investment opportunities more accessible, thereby improving the overall trading experience and expanding the range of financial solutions available across Southeast Asia. This initiative marks a significant step forward in expanding market influence and strengthening regional presence.

Infinity 9: A Strategic Partnership with Far-Reaching Potential
The collaboration is not just about improving investment accessibility; it is about invigorating regional financial markets. The Infinity 9 Program is poised to bring new energy to stock exchanges in Malaysia and Singapore by offering an enhanced and optimized trading experience. The initiative seeks to democratize access to institutional-grade strategies, allowing individual investors to leverage advanced tools and market insights typically reserved for major financial players.

With a broader range of investment options, participants will have more opportunities to diversify portfolios and pursue stable, long-term financial growth. Backed by two powerhouse financial entities, investors can expect a more dynamic trading environment with access to global market trends, cutting-edge analytics, and sophisticated trading tools. In turn, this will foster a more informed and confident investor base, ultimately driving financial success for those involved in the program.

A Transformative Step in Expanding Market Presence and Investment Solutions
The Infinity 9 Program marks a key milestone in the regional expansion strategy of its initiators. By offering retail investors access to high-level trading strategies typically reserved for institutional investors, the initiative levels the playing field, empowering individuals to make smarter investment decisions with the aid of sophisticated tools and strategies.

By extending these institutional-grade opportunities to a wider audience, this initiative positions itself as a catalyst for the evolving financial landscape in Southeast Asia. With a growing demand for advanced and innovative financial solutions, the program stands as a testament to the commitment to enhancing investment experiences for all types of investors. This expansion of market presence is expected to reinforce its role as a pivotal player in the region’s financial sector, paving the way for future growth and opportunities.

Analyst Insights: Positive Market Outlook Following Chinese New Year
Market analysts anticipate a slight uptrend in key financial securities following the Chinese New Year (CNY) period, creating an exciting window of opportunity for participants in the Infinity 9 Program. Experts view this market shift as a positive development, predicting that this momentum could allow investors to capitalize on growth potential.

Through this collaboration, retail investors will gain access to up-to-date market insights and trading strategies, positioning them advantageously for well-timed investment decisions. The ability to act on informed market predictions with institutional-grade tools is expected to enhance portfolio performance and maximize financial growth opportunities.

Expanding Market Reach and Creating New Investment Opportunities
The launch of the Infinity 9 Program is set to broaden market influence while providing retail investors with unprecedented access to sophisticated financial markets. This strategic collaboration is expected to inject vitality into Malaysian and Singaporean stock markets, offering individual investors a powerful suite of trading tools, investment strategies, and expert guidance.

With these resources, retail investors will gain access to trading opportunities and insights traditionally available only to large financial institutions. The program is designed to empower participants with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate complex financial markets, ensuring they are well-equipped to capitalize on emerging trends and maximize returns. By bridging the gap between institutional and retail investing, this initiative contributes to a more dynamic and inclusive financial market across the region.

A Game-Changer for Retail Investors in Southeast Asia
For retail investors in Malaysia and Singapore, the Infinity 9 Program represents a groundbreaking opportunity. By joining, participants can leverage the combined expertise of a leading regional institution and a globally recognized financial entity, gaining access to sophisticated trading tools, expert insights, and advanced investment strategies. This collaboration empowers individuals to make data-driven investment decisions, giving them a competitive edge in an evolving financial landscape.

The program’s focus on institutional-grade trading strategies addresses the growing demand for innovative financial solutions. Investors can now access tools designed to optimize portfolio growth, diversify assets, and enhance financial outcomes. With this initiative, the program sets a new standard in retail investing, making advanced market opportunities more accessible and paving the way for financial success across Southeast Asia.

Exclusive Investment Opportunity for Malaysian Retail Investors: Analyst Insight on a Leading Financial Institution’s Infinity 9 Program

Admin Feb 13, 2025

Kuala Lumpur — In an ambitious move to strengthen its presence in the Malaysian market, a prominent local financial leader has teamed up with a global financial giant to launch the Infinity 9 Program. This initiative offers retail investors across Malaysia a unique opportunity to engage in trading strategies typically reserved for large institutional players. This collaboration between two major financial powerhouses aims to break down barriers, giving individual investors access to advanced trading methods and market activities that were once out of reach for the general public.

The launch of the Infinity 9 Program marks a significant shift in Malaysia’s investment landscape, empowering individual investors to diversify their portfolios, explore advanced financial markets, and tap into potentially more lucrative opportunities for growth. By combining the expertise and resources of both institutions, the program provides a pathway for retail investors to access investment options that were previously exclusive to high-net-worth individuals and institutions.

Unprecedented Access to Institutional Trading for Malaysian Investors

Exclusive Investment Opportunity for Malaysian Retail Investors: Analyst Insight on a Leading Financial Institution’s Infinity 9 Program

This partnership is breaking down traditional barriers, enabling retail investors to leverage the same advanced systems and insights used by major market players. Participants can now diversify their portfolios, explore a wider range of asset classes, and position themselves for potentially higher returns in a competitive market. This program empowers retail investors to elevate their strategies and seize opportunities that were once only accessible to the elite.

Market Outlook: Analyst Predicts Positive Momentum Post-CNY

According to a market expert, the outlook for the local financial leader’s stock is positive, with expectations of a slight upward trend following the Chinese New Year (CNY) period. This predicted momentum presents a timely opportunity for Infinity 9 Program participants to capitalize on potential market gains. With access to expert tools, real-time data, and professional guidance, investors are well-equipped to make informed decisions and navigate market trends effectively.

The combination of expert insights and advanced resources positions retail investors to take advantage of favorable market conditions. By leveraging institutional-level analysis and strategies, participants can confidently seize opportunities for growth during this period.

A Path to Success and Profit

The Infinity 9 Program goes beyond providing access to institutional trading—it also offers participants expert knowledge and guidance from two of the region’s most respected financial institutions. This ensures that retail investors receive the support they need to make informed decisions, boosting their confidence and equipping them with the tools to succeed in a dynamic financial landscape.

With access to comprehensive market analysis, trading insights, and institutional-grade strategies, investors are well-positioned to achieve long-term financial success. The program’s cutting-edge tools and expert guidance provide a solid foundation for navigating market complexities, helping participants stay ahead and achieve profitable outcomes.

Real Investor Experience: Ahmad from Kuala Lumpur

Ahmad, a Kuala Lumpur-based retail investor, shared his experience with the Infinity 9 Program, expressing excitement about gaining access to institutional-level trading for the first time. “I’ve always wanted to participate in advanced trading, but I never thought it would be possible for someone like me. The Infinity 9 Program has opened doors I didn’t think existed,” he said.

Ahmad highlighted the program’s potential to help him make better-informed decisions and grow his portfolio. For him, the program represents a transformative step in his investment journey, providing the tools and knowledge to achieve his financial goals. His story reflects the program’s ability to empower retail investors with resources and guidance that were once exclusive to institutional players.

Why You Should Act Now

The Infinity 9 Program is more than just an investment service—it’s a groundbreaking opportunity for retail investors to step into the world of institutional trading. With the Q1 2025 batch already fully reserved, now is the time to secure a spot in future sessions. Investors ready to elevate their strategies should act quickly to access advanced tools, expert insights, and institutional-grade resources.

Participation in the program offers long-term benefits, including access to cutting-edge technology, real-time market data, and expert guidance. These resources help investors maximize returns while minimizing risks, providing a structured path to financial growth and success.

Join the Infinity 9 Program Today

For Malaysian retail investors, the Infinity 9 Program represents a rare opportunity to engage in institutional-level trading. Backed by two leading financial institutions, the program provides access to a wealth of resources, tools, and strategies designed to guide participants toward financial success. Whether you’re looking to diversify your portfolio, explore new investment avenues, or achieve long-term growth, the Infinity 9 Program offers the support and expertise to help you reach your goals. Don’t miss this chance to transform your investment journey—join the program today and take the first step toward unlocking your financial potential.

Kitacon wins RM104.3mil Klang contract

Admin Feb 12, 2025

PETALING JAYA: Kumpulan Kitacon Bhd’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Kitacon Sdn Bhd, has secured a RM104.3mil contract from Sime Darby Property (BBR3 Asset 1) Sdn Bhd for main building works in Klang, Selangor.

In a statement, the group said the contract entailed the proposed construction of 20 semi-detached factories and three Tenaga Nasional Bhd substations, including infrastructure and other works.

The contract will commence on Feb 24, 2025, and is expected to be completed in 18 months.

The group expects the contract to contribute positively to its earnings and net assets per share for the financial years ending Dec 31, 2025, onwards until the expiry of the contract.

“The risk factors affecting the contract include changes in the economic, political and regulatory environment, and operational risks such as completion risk and shortage of materials and skilled labour, which the group would take appropriate measures to minimise,” it added.

Solar sector set for RM18bil boost

Admin Feb 12, 2025

PETALING JAYA: Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB) Research is positively surprised about the country’s large scale solar 6 (LSS6) programme, which is expected to be open for bidding in the second quarter of this year (2Q25).

The research house is expecting to see between RM15bil and RM18bil worth of solar engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning (EPCC) contracts to be formalised over the next 24 months.

This is assuming the LSS6 is of similar size to LSS5 and the recent 2GW LSS5+ announcement by the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry (Petra).

“There are no details on its quota yet, but we think LSS5 (2GW) and LSS5+ (2GW) could be a reasonable indication,” HLIB Research said.

It added that cumulative quotas from just LSS5 and LSS5+ of 4GW is about 28% larger than total quotas awarded from LSS1 to LSS4 programmes and Corporate Green Power Programme.

The research house said the upcoming transmission and distribution upgrades during regulatory period 4 (2025 to 2027) – enabled by record allowable capital expenditure of RM42.8bil – should prepare the grid for new renewable energy (RE) capacity.

Petra announced new RE programmes last Friday to further accelerate developments, including a Community Renewable Energy Aggregation Mechanism which will enable home owners to lease rooftop spaces to third parties (RE developers), creating additional income streams.

Bermaz Auto’s growth underpinned by new model launches

Admin Feb 12, 2025

PETALING JAYA: Bermaz Auto Bhd (BAuto) looked poised for steady growth in the coming financial year, driven by its new model offerings and strategic focus on customer retention.

While the competitive landscape in the mid-segment remained intense, the group’s valuation continued to appear attractive, underpinned by a strong dividend yield and a promising vehicle line-up.

MIDF Research, following a virtual call with BAuto, maintained its earnings estimates ahead of the group’s third-quarter results announcement on March 12, 2025. 

However, the research house revised its target price to RM1.97 from RM2.21, adjusting its valuation methodology to “better reflect the intense competition in the mid-segment.” Despite this revision, it reiterated its “buy” call, citing an appealing dividend yield of 12.8%.

“We believe that BAuto’s new model offerings remain promising, and we are sanguine about the group’s efforts to prioritise customer retention over aggressive discounting,” MIDF Research stated.

The introduction of new models was expected to bolster BAuto’s performance. The fifth-generation Kia Sportage, launched as a completely knocked-down (CKD) unit in December 2024, saw its initial demand affected by late deliveries in mid-January, coinciding with festive celebrations.

“At present, approximately 100 units have been sold, while about 50 remain on order,” the research house noted, adding that further updates on customer reception would be disclosed in BAuto’s upcoming results announcement.

China’s bubble tea firm Mixue to raise about US$500mil in Hong Kong IPO later in Feb, sources say

Admin Feb 12, 2025

SYDNEY/HONG KONG: China’s largest bubble tea firm, Mixue Group, will begin bookbuilding for its Hong Kong initial public offering by the end of February to raise about $500 million, according to three sources with direct knowledge of the matter.

Mixue, which has about 36,000 stores across mainland China, plans to start trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in early March, one of the sources added.

The sources asked not to be identified discussing confidential information. Mixue declined to comment. – Reuters

Groups: Support needed for over 40,000 civil servants identified as being at high risk for mental health issues

Admin Feb 12, 2025

PETALING JAYA: With over 40,000 civil servants identified as being at high risk for mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and suicidal behaviour, interest groups say a better support system, including expanding the One-Stop Social Support Centre (PSSS), is necessary.

The Congress of Union of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) has called for PSSS’ full support to aid civil servants facing work-related stress.

Cuepacs president Datuk Dr Adnan Mat said the initiative could provide vital psychosocial assistance to vulnerable groups, including civil servants, but noted a lack of awareness of the service.“Awareness among civil servants of the PSSS is still low.

“To ensure more civil servants benefit from these services, we need more aggressive awareness campaigns and the placement of PSSS information in every government agency to ensure more civil servants can access the support they need.

“There should also be collaboration with public-sector employers to introduce PSSS services as part of employee welfare initiatives,” he said in an interview yesterday.

Adnan noted that the PSSS can be instrumental in addressing these challenges, provided it is expanded and optimised.

“Permanent PSSS should be set up in strategic locations such as government complexes, hospitals and city centres.”

He also stressed the importance of confidentiality for users in order to prevent stigma.

“There should be special counselling sessions for civil servants conducted by counsellors familiar with public sector work stress, as well as early intervention through regular mental health screenings to detect and address issues before they worsen,” he said.

When asked, Adnan pinpointed several factors contributing to mental health issues among civil servants, including heavy workloads caused by pressure to meet key performance indicators, understaffing and rising job demands.

“Others included financial stress due to higher cost of living, workplace conflicts, work-life imbalance and job uncertainty,” he said.

To address these issues, Adnan said, Cuepacs recommends comprehensive support systems such as onsite counselling, safe complaint channels, work flexibility, mental health treatment subsidies and regular training.

“The mental health of civil servants must be a government priority as it directly impacts public service performance,” he said, adding that ministries, the Public Service Department and trade unions should work together.

PSSS, a National Welfare Foundation (YKN) initiative, offers holistic psychosocial support, including guidance and counselling services for the community.

When contacted, a YKN spokesperson said 208 programmes were conducted last year through its PSSS.

YKN has six mobile PSSS based on geographical zones, and two premises in Kuala Lumpur and Kelantan.

The PSSS have received referrals for cases involving mental health, cost of living, sexual harassment, education, financial issues, welfare aid, domestic violence and family problems, among others.

Mental Illness Awareness and Support Association (Miasa) Malaysia founder and president Anita Abu Bakar said PSSS can help high-risk civil servants receive early intervention.

“The initiative is a positive and progressive step in addressing complex mental health and social issues, offering emotional support and early intervention, particularly among vulnerable groups and the homeless,” she said.

She highlighted the collaborative efforts among the government, NGOs and employers, adding that “mental health is a shared responsibility”.

Anita also called for the initiative to be expanded to more locations nationwide to ensure wider access to necessary services.

“PSSS has the potential to strengthen public awareness of mental health, particularly through more community-friendly services,” she said.

“It’s important to integrate educational programmes and crisis intervention training to increase mental health awareness.

“Mental health efforts must be comprehensive and ongoing, requiring continuous commitment from all stakeholders.”

Former arbitration centre director wins RM400,000 damages in defamation suit

Admin Feb 3, 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 10): The High Court on Friday ruled that the Malaysian Institute of Architects had defamed Asian International Arbitration Centre’s ex-director Datuk N Sundra Rajoo in two articles. 

Judge Datuk Su Tiang Joo ordered the institute to pay RM400,000 in general and aggravated damages over the publication of two articles in 2018. A cost of RM100,000 was also awarded to Sundra Rajoo.

S Thirilogachandran, the then honorary secretary of the institute, was named in the case, solely in his capacity as a registered public officer of the institute.

Under the law, a registered society such as the institute could only be sued through its registered public officer. However, the officer would not be personally liable on any judgment or order entered against the society; only the society remains legally responsible.

In his brief grounds, Su found the two articles published by the institute to be defamatory to Sundra Rajoo.

The institute had published ‘Refuting Unsubstantiated and Misleading Claims on Flaws of Certificate of Completion and Compliance’ which was republished in a WhatsApp group with the title “Feedback for PAM”.

Both were responses to Sundra Rajoo’s article titled ‘Consequences and Flaws to the Certificate of Completion and Compliance: Comparative Analysis with Proposed Solutions’ published in the Malaysian Law journal.

Sundra Rajoo, apart from being a lawyer and arbitrator, is also a registered architect.

Su ruled all three elements of defamation have been proven on a balance of probabilities, meaning that the court found that it is more likely than not, the article referred to Sundra Rajoo, concerns the plaintiff, and contained defamatory language.

Further, the court also ruled on a balance of probabilities that the defendant was motivated by express malice in allowing himself to be jointly identified in the publication of the articles and rejected the defence of fair comment.

“The court found the language used in the article to be carefully chosen to cut, humiliate and to hurt the plaintiff,” Su said. “The words were repeated at different stages and were apparently directed at the author [Sundra Rajoo], rather than a message the author was conveying.”

Su also noted that the defendant did not show remorse and did not tender any apology in granting the damages.

An injunction was also granted, restraining the institute from further publication of the defamatory content contained in the articles. The institute was also ordered to jointly put up with the Malaysia Architect Authority a notice of disassociation in two media publications.

The institute was also to remove the second article from the WhatsApp chat group.

Sundra Rajoo was represented by Rueben Mathiavaranam and Sumita Balasubramaniam while David Lingam, Kamaldip Kaur and Deepinder Kaur appeared for the institute.

Rueben, when contacted by The Edge, confirmed the outcome of the case.

Sundra Rajoo had filed the suit in 2021, claiming the institute had defamed him by publishing the two statements which he claimed were “plainly false, untrue, unwarranted, unsubstantiated, malicious, mischievous and constitute a grave and serious libel” against him.

L’Oreal sells €3b of Sanofi stock back to drugmaker

Admin Feb 3, 2025

(Feb 3): Cosmetics giant L’Oreal SA is selling a €3 billion (US$3.1 billion or RM13.8 billion) stake in Sanofi back to the French drugmaker, cashing in part of its holding after Sanofi’s shares outperformed the market over the past year.

L’Oreal is selling 29.6 million shares at €101.50 each, the companies said in statements on Monday. After the sale, L’Oréal will own 7.2% of Sanofi’s share capital, and 13.1% of its voting rights.

The price is a 2.8% discount to where Sanofi shares closed last Friday.

The sale will “optimise” L’Oreal’s balance sheet following recent acquisitions and further diversify its financing sources, the maker of shampoo and cosmetic brands like Garnier and Lancome said. L’Oreal has been acquisitive in recent years, buying notably soap maker Aesop in a transaction worth US$2.6 billion.

The repurchase is part of Sanofi’s share buy-back programme announced last week, the drugmaker said.

Sanofi shares in Paris have gained almost 20% over the past year, while shares in the beauty group have fallen by around the same amount amid a demand downturn in China. L’Oreal will report full-year earnings on Thursday.

Govt proposes mandatory 2% EPF contribution for foreign workers

Admin Feb 3, 2025

KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 3): The government has proposed to implement a mandatory 2% Employees Provident Fund (EPF) contribution rate for foreign workers, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said the rate is lower than the initial proposal of 12%.

“But there were some concerns that it might accumulate, starting at 2%, then increasing to 4% and 6%. That is not the case. We are keeping it at 2%, which is very minimal,” he said during the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia’s (ACCCIM) Chinese New Year reception.

The finance minister added that the proposal will be discussed at the Cabinet level this week, with the Ministry of Human Resources set to announce the details.

During the tabling of Budget 2025 last year, Anwar announced plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the EPF as part of the government’s commitment to providing fair treatment to all workers regardless of nationality. “This proposal will be implemented in phases,” he told the Dewan Rakyat then.

Following the tabling of the budget, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) proposed that the EPF contribution rate become standardised for both Malaysians and foreigners with new employment contracts. This would mean that employees will contribute 11% and employers will contribute 12% to 13%.

Previously, the MOF had proposed the contribution rate for employees and employers of foreign workers with existing contracts start at 2% and increase gradually over six years until it reaches the EPF contribution rate for Malaysian employees.