Bank Negara's international reserves rise to US$125.5bil as at Dec 31
KUALA LUMPUR: The international reserves of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) increased to US$125.5 billion as at Dec 31, 2025, from US$124.3 billion as at Dec 15, 2025.
For lenders, execution is crucial this year
PETALING JAYA: Execution rather than interest rates will define banking performance in 2026, with management discipline becoming the decisive factor as policy settings stabilise, according to BIMB Research.
OCBC Malaysia wins Best Trade Finance Bank by Euromoney
KUALA LUMPUR: OCBC Malaysia has been named Malaysia's Best Trade Finance Bank by Euromoney, in recognition of its innovative solutions and digital offerings that enable businesses to manage cash flows more efficiently through a seamless financing process.
Banking sector poised for steady 2026 on credit growth, NIM expansion
KUALA LUMPUR: The banking sector is expected to appear steadfast in 2026 driven by sustained credit growth; net interest margin expansion; resilient non-interest income (NOII); and stable national clearing code (NCC), according to AmInvestment Bank Bhd.
Maybank sets RM2,500 cap on Google Pay contactless transactions, effective Jan 27
For transactions exceeding RM2,500, users will be required to use their physical card.
Banking sector asset quality intact buffered by overlay balances
PETALING JAYA: While leading indicators for the banking sector remain strong based on November 2025 statistics, there are concerns over tightening liquidity and its possible negative impact on the cost of funds in subsequent quarters, particularly amid expectations of stronger loan growth in 2026.
SNB sharply reduces foreign currency purchases
The Swiss National Bank (SNB) bought 75 million Swiss francs' (US$95mil) worth of foreign currencies in the third quarter of 2025, a sharp reduction from the previous three-month period, data from the central bank shows.
Nor Zahidi continues as MPC member
Bank Negara Malaysia has reappointed Nor Zahidi Alias as an external member of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).
Loan growth expected to reach 5.7% in 2026
Overall loan growth is projected to grow by 5.7% in 2026, supported by expansion of 5.8% in consumer lending and 5.5% in business loans, according to TA Research.
Short-term interbank rates end steady
Short-term interbank rates ended steady yesterday following Bank Negara Malaysia's operations to absorb surplus liquidity from the financial system.
