Lower August producer price index to keep OPR unchanged in 2024 — MIDF Research

• MIDF Amanah Investment Bank Bhd's research arm, MIDF Research said the easing of PPI inflation generally suggests a limited effect from policy changes, such as diesel subsidy rationalisation on local production costs.

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 27): The overnight policy rate (OPR) is expected to remain unchanged at 3% in 2024 with Malaysia’s producer price index (PPI) inflation moderating to 0.3% year-on-year (y-o-y) in August 2024 from 1.3% y-o-y the previous month.

The PPI measures price changes of goods at the producer level.

MIDF Amanah Investment Bank Bhd's research arm, MIDF Research said the easing of PPI inflation generally suggests a limited effect from policy changes, such as diesel subsidy rationalisation on local production costs.

"On that note, with inflation still under control, we do not foresee the OPR to be adjusted this year," it said in a note on Friday.

Citing data released by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) on Thursday, MIDF Research said August 2024's PPI was the slowest increase in six months.

"The moderation can be explained by lower commodity prices, particularly the Brent crude oil price which dropped 7.3% y-o-y to US$78.88 per barrel," it said.

Looking to buy a home? Sign up for EdgeProp START and get exclusive rewards and vouchers for ANY home purchase in Malaysia (primary or subsale)!