WealthVantage September 2025 Market Outlook & Review

Malaysia and global market summary for September 2025.

Global Market Highlights

• Volatility increased from macro, political, and AI narratives.

• Long-term bond yields climbed despite easier policy expectations.

• Political interference concerns in U.S. Fed added uncertainty.

• Tech/AI strong earnings help, but skepticism on near-term returns remains.

 Malaysia Outlook

• Growth outlook trimmed to ~4.0–4.8% for 2025.

• Inflation moderated, giving policy room to support growth.

• Government announced the BUDI Madani RON95 program, lowering the price of RON95 petrol from RM2.05 to RM1.99 per litre for Malaysians starting September 30, 2025.

United States Outlook

• The Fed has kept policy tight (the federal funds target in mid-2025 was in the 4.25–4.50% range).

• The Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest even though inflation is still around 3%.

• Growth mixed: modest GDP, softer labor, weaker consumer confidence.

• Political developments add Fed policy uncertainty.

China Outlook

• China’s recovery remains uneven: headline GDP growth improved in H1 2025 (reports point to ~5%+ year-on-year in H1), led by industrial output and exports.

•  Domestic consumption & property sector remain weak.

•  Growth forecasts for China predicted policy support and trade improvements but household demand remains the key medium-term challenge. 

 Alternative Investments

• Oil prices dropped 0.46% to USD67.74 (RM286.52) as investors weighed the outlook for US fuel demand

•  Bitcoin dominance falling below 60% signaling broadening market drivers

•  Gold slipped from a near 2-week high as the dollar get higher, but expectations of US rate cuts capped losses

•  S&P 500 futures slipped 0.2% and Nasdaq futures dropped 0.4% after Nvidia’s results, following two days of record gains in US markets

What’s Next for Investors?

The current market environment highlights the importance of staying balanced and diversified. Shifts in global interest rates, policy changes, and geopolitical developments continue to shape opportunities and risks across regions and asset classes. Traditional markets face varying pressures, while alternative investments are evolving and gaining more interest. Diversification remains a central theme as investors navigate volatility, with portfolio reviews becoming more relevant to ensure alignment with long-term objectives in a changing global landscape.