Malaysia’s ringgit opened mostly higher after the Department of Statistics released an advance estimate showing third-quarter 2026 GDP growth of 5.3%, a stronger-than-expected print that lifted market sentiment. The currency was relatively stable against the US dollar at about 4.0790/4.0855 in early trading, as investors balanced the upbeat growth data with broader external factors. Economists, including Bank Muamalat’s chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid, say the stronger economic momentum could bolster expectations that monetary policy may gradually normalise, potentially prompting the central bank to consider policy adjustments if the expansion proves sustained and inflationary pressures re-emerge. Market moves will likely hinge on upcoming domestic inflation readings, external demand trends and global financial conditions.
Ringgit opens mostly higher as GDP growth beats forecasts
