Latest news with #RM472
New Straits Times
23-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
LBS launches Cameron Highlands' largest mixed commercial development
KUALA LUMPUR: LBS Bina Group Bhd has launched Centrum Iris, the largest integrated mixed commercial development in Cameron Highlands, Pahang. With a gross development value (GDV) of RM472 million, the project sets a new benchmark for highland living in Malaysia. Centrum Iris marks the second precinct of LBS' flagship Cameron Centrum township and builds upon the success of Precinct 1, which was completed in 2021. The first phase comprises 58 shop-office units ranging from two to five storeys and is now 95 per cent occupied by major brands in the F&B, banking, healthcare, and retail sectors, laying a strong foundation for Precinct 2's continued growth. The thriving commercial ecosystem in Precinct 1 has laid a solid foundation for Centrum Iris, offering a ready catchment of lifestyle convenience and investment appeal. A key milestone during the launch was the signing of MOUs with MyKey International and Dreamscape Hospitality Group, both of which are leading short-term rental platform operators. The partnership will enable LBS homeowners to tap into Malaysia's booming short-stay tourism market and generate hassle-free rental income. "Our collaboration with MyKey and Dreamscape enables us to expand Centrum Iris' appeal beyond traditional homeownership, tapping into the short-term rental market in Malaysia's tourism hotspots," said executive director of LBS, Datuk Sri Daniel Lim, who officiated the grand launching event. Also present were LBS executive director Datuk Cynthia Lim and deputy chief executive officer Lucas Lim. Strategically located in the heart of Brinchang's bustling commercial district, Centrum Iris offers 705 residential units (ranging from 595 to 1,370 sq ft, starting from RM476,000) and 26 commercial units (ranging from 615 to 2,944 sq ft, starting from RM676,000). According to LBS, the project has already recorded strong bookings, reflecting buyer confidence in its long-term value. Its central location in Brinchang, a hub for tourism and commerce, positions the development as a prime choice for buyers seeking long-term value and year-round highland appeal. Centrum Iris has earned the distinction of being Cameron Highlands' first development to receive the Silver GreenRE Certification, reflecting LBS' strong commitment to sustainable and environmentally conscious development. Its eco-friendly features include electric vehicle (EV) charging bays, 47 lifestyle-oriented facilities, and a rooftop café and restaurant designed to offer sweeping views of the highlands, promoting a greener, healthier way of living. Combining contemporary architecture with English-inspired aesthetics, Centrum Iris offers a unique and elevated lifestyle in the highlands, appealing to both homeowners and investors seeking long-term value and everyday convenience.
New Straits Times
23-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
RHB initiates 'Neutral' call on MBSB, sees 6-7pct dividend yield cushion
KUALA LUMPUR: RHB Investment Bank Bhd has initiated coverage on MBSB Bank Bhd with a 'Neutral' rating, valuing the stock at 67 sen per share, or about 2 per cent below its current market price of 68 sen. In its research note, RHB described the upcoming financial years as a transitional phase for MBSB, as the Shariah-compliant bank focuses on rebalancing its funding and financing mix to enhance overall asset quality. "This will take time to kick in. In the meantime, MBSB continues to hold on to excess capital, which management intends to utilise for growth whilst maintaining attractive dividend payouts," the research firm said. As part of its Flight26 strategic plan, MBSB aims to achieve an 8 per cent return on equity (ROE) by the financial year 2026 (FY2026), doubling the 4 per cent ROE recorded in FY2024. This target is underpinned by expectations of a stronger earnings profile, improved funding mix, better fee and treasury income, and continued cost discipline. RHB noted that MBSB currently holds the highest common equity tier-1 (CET-1) ratio in the sector at 19.4 per cent, with further upside potential due to its sector-high risk-weighted assets density of 74 per cent. This capital strength enables the bank to pursue above-industry financing growth while supporting sustainable dividend payouts. On the asset quality front, the bank's gross impaired financing (GIF) ratio stood at 5.5 per cent in the first quarter of 2025 (Q1 2025), notably higher than the 0.5 per cent to 2.2 per cent range among peers. "We understand that a significant portion of MBSB's GIFs come from legacy construction and collateralised personal financing accounts, but these have a long legal process and recovery period, and over 95 per cent of the GIFs are collateralised with high recovery rates," RHB said. The research house also highlighted several potential risks, including slower financing growth, weaker deposit traction, softer non-financing income, rising credit costs, and key management departures. Despite these concerns, RHB expects MBSB's dividend yield to remain attractive at around 6 per cent in FY2025, serving as a buffer against downside risks. "We project a 14 per cent compound annual growth rate in net profit between FY2024 and FY2027, with profit forecast to rise from RM472 million in FY2025 to RM597 million in FY2027. "This projection is based on an operating income compound annual growth rate, positive operating leverage supported by cost discipline, and credit costs. "We assume a 70 per cent dividend payout ratio, which translates to attractive dividend yields of 6 to 7 per cent for FY2025 and FY2026," RHB added.
BusinessToday
23-05-2025
- Business
- BusinessToday
More Upside Forthcoming For Bitcoin
Bitcoin has soared to a record-breaking high of RM472,299 (US$111,881), marking a significant milestone for the world's most prominent cryptocurrency and fuelling renewed optimism in the digital asset space. Malaysian crypto exchange Luno Asia Pacific General Manager Aaron Tang said, despite the historic price surge, retail investor interest remains relatively low compared to past bull runs as indicated by the Fear & Greed Index. 'Currently, the index is at 72, indicating 'greed', which suggests there may still be room for growth if retail participation picks up,' Tang said. He shared that, unlike previous cycles, this rally is largely fuelled by strong institutional demand by big players like Strategy Inc (formerly MicroStrategy), BlackRock and Grayscale through direct Bitcoin holdings and exchange-traded funds. 'Hence, the market sentiment remains positive but not overheated,' Tang said. Related
