Maybank and CIMB Group led blue-chip gains on Friday, rising 1.2% and 0.9% respectively. Analysts are optimistic about the banking sector's outlook, anticipating continued improvement in profitability driven by economic recovery and expectations of stable interest rates. Strong loan growth and asset quality are also key factors.
KUALA LUMPUR, March 14, 2026 – Malaysia's two largest banking giants, Malayan Banking Bhd (Maybank), which rose 1.2% to RM9.35, and CIMB Group Holdings Bhd, up 0.9% to RM6.88, were key drivers for the FBM KLCI's ascent on Friday. Their robust performance reflects growing investor confidence in the banking sector. Analysts widely believe that with Malaysia's ongoing economic recovery and the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) expected to remain stable, banks' net interest margins will be supported, while loan growth is anticipated to remain healthy. Furthermore, improving asset quality serves as a positive catalyst for banking stocks. Market observers predict that the banking sector is poised for solid earnings growth throughout 2026.
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