Maybank IB Research

COMPANY UPDATE
SapuraCrest Petroleum RM4.58: Buy
Orders 2 pipelay vessels Shariah-compliant

Maintain Buy with a RM5.60 TP. SapCrest's rapid expansion of its marine fleet to capitalise on the boom in the installation of pipelines and facilities (IPF) markets is positive, in keeping with its aspiration to be a regional player. This strategy will be rewarding, if executed well. However, contributions will only be realised from FY15. We remain positive on its strong ability to grow and pursue new jobs for medium term growth, and continue to rate SapCrest a Buy.


KNM Group RM0.96: Sell
Riding through a transition phase Shariah-compliant

Target price cut to RM0.88 (-19%) following a 10-19% downgrade in FY12-13F earnings forecasts on lower revenue recognition. While margin pressure has abated on improving order flows, we are cautious of KNM's cost management abilities and so retain a conservative stance on our estimates. KNM needs to deliver a consistent set of quarterly results to warrant a re-rating. Sell maintained.


Technicals
The FBM KLCI closed 3.27 points higher at 1,525.56 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,530 and 1,545 may cap market gains, whilst obvious support areas may be located at 1,505 and 1,525.

Trading idea is an ACCUMULATE call for UNISEM.

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Maybank IB Views

COMPANY UPDATE
Lafarge Malayan Cement RM6.85: Buy
A strong proxy to construction sector

Maintain Buy. As the largest cement producer in the country, LMC is undoubtedly a proxy to, and a major beneficiary of, the high growth construction sector, which in itself, should see robust activity, once projects under Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) take off. Additionally, we expect its share price to be supported by its decent net dividend yield of 5%. Maintain Buy with a marginally lower TP of RM7.60 (RM7.85 previously) on 17x 2013 PER as we roll forward valuations after trimming earnings forecasts by 11% p.a..

UMW Holdings RM6.60: Hold
Bareboat charters Hakuryu-5 to PCSB

Maintain Hold. UMW's USD72m bareboat charter contract of Hakuryu-5 to PCSB, which yields low margin, is earnings neutral to Group earnings (<1%). As such, we are keeping our forecasts and RM6.60 target price unchanged, based on 11x 2012 EPS.

ECONOMICS
ETP Update
One year after

The latest ETP briefing (1 Nov 2011) by PEMANDU provided three key updates. First, of the 70 EPPs and 27 initiatives announced so far, 31% are fully operational, 50% have commenced implementation, and 17% are still work-in-progress. Second, of the RM171b investment announced to date, 9% or RM15b is implemented in 2011, including RM10b actualised in 1H 2011. Third, private investment in 1H 2011 was RM51.2b, meaning 19.5% of it came from ETP.

ETP Progress Updates 1-7
Implementation Update

Provided by PEMANDU on the official website.

RESULTS REVIEW
Sunway REIT RM1.14: Buy
Sequentially stronger

On track. SunREIT's RM44.2m 1QFY12 net profit tracked our and market expectations. Longer-term view is positive supported by Sunway Putra Place's (SPP) attractive est. 9% property yield. We maintain our earnings forecasts, RM1.18 DCF-based TP and Buy call, the latter premised on a 12-month total return of 10% based on our target price and forecast dividends.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI fell 16.25-points to close at 1,475.64 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,475 and 1,494 will cap market gains, whilst the weaker support areas may be located at 1,446 and 1,470. Due to the US markets’ much lower tone last night; we may see an initial drop for the index. Some later miniscule local bargain hunting activities cushion the local markets’ plungein the afternoon session. We expect a very volatile trading day.

Trading Idea is a take profit call on CBIP.

Other Local News
SapuraCrest: Wins RM4.4b Brazilian oil and gas job. SapuraCrest gas clinched a contract from Petroleo Brasileiro SA worth about USD1.4b (RM4.4b) to charter and operate three deepwater flexible pipe-laying supports vessels (PLSVs).Revenue from the award was expected to be generated by the fourth quarter of 2014. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

Supermax: Declares 1 for 1 bonus. Supermax Corp has proposed a one-for-one bonus issue involving 340.1m new shares and a share buyback of up to 10% of its issued share capital. Both proposals are expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2012. (Source:Bursa Malaysia)

DiGi: Capital Management Initiative. DiGi is expected to distribute about RM509m to its shareholders by the first half of 2012 under the proposed capital distribution upon its redemption of the redeemable preference shares of about RM509m. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

TNB: Gas shortage for 2-3 months more. TNB will have to deal with losses caused by having to substitute costly fuel oil for power generation as the government decides that electricity prices will remain unchanged. TNB has been buying fuel oil to replace natural gas for electricity generation, which will cost the company an additional RM2.1b for the second half of 2011. (Source: Business Times)

Telekom: Tough procurement policy saves RM1b. The massive RM11.3b high-speed broadband (HSBB) project may eventually cost Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) at least RM1b less in expenditure than its original costing because it has implemented a tough procurement policy. (Source: The Star)

Aviation: SIA targets mid-2012 Scoot takeoff. SIA new long-haul budget carrier will be renamed “Scoot” with takeoff set for mid-2012. The new carrier will fly to cities in China and Australia, operating a fleet of 200 second-hand Boeing 777 jets and charging up to 40% less than full-service airlines. (Source:The Edge Financial Daily)

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Stocks to watch: Tenaga, Envair, SILK, MFM

KUALA LUMPUR: TENAGA NASIONAL BHD [] could be in focus on Monday, Oct 31 after it announced fourth quarter net loss of RM453.90 million, the second consecutive quarter of losses, last Friday, and expected the current financial year to be very challenging.

At the operating level, the power company reported operating losses of RM248.80 million due to higher fuel costs of coal and utilisation of oil and distillates after the gas curtailment by Petroliam Nasional Bhd.

Though investors anticipated Tenaga to reported losses, their concerns were whether it could work out the gas supply issue and a definite compensation from Petronas.

However, the lack of assurance from Petronas could weigh on the share price, especially after Tenaga president and chief executive officer Datuk Seri Che Khalib Mohamad Noh said on Friday no decision had been reached as yet.

OSK Research said barring a write-back of compensation from Petronas due to its failure to supply sufficient gas to Tenaga, the power company should still post losses over the next two quarters.

“A continued gas shortage coupled with outages in coal plants during 4QFY11 should have necessitated Tenaga to continue to generate substantial power from expensive oil and distillates. In addition, the weakening ringgit would give rise to translation losses,” it said.

OSK Research cautioned that Tenaga might be hopeful for compensation from Petronas amounting to 33% to 67% of its additional fuel bill.

“Investors may also hold out hopes of Tenaga securing a fuel cost pass through after the anticipated General Elections, which may be held soon. In any case, we still believe it would be risky to invest in Tenaga beyond current levels given such speculation,” it added.

However, the broader market could extend their gains, underpinned by the recent strong performance on Wall Street where stocks closed out a fourth week of gains in quiet fashion on Friday, edging higher as the market took a breather after rallying 3% on Europe's deal to stem its debt crisis.

Reuters reported though investors still have questions about implementing the deal, they appeared satisfied by Europe's progress as stocks ended their longest weekly winning streak of the year.

The Dow Jones industrial average gained 22.56 points, or 0.18%, to 12,231.11. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index added 0.49 point, or 0.04%, to 1,285.08. The Nasdaq Composite Index shed 1.48 points, or 0.05 percent, to 2,737.15.

As for the FBM KLCI, it is up 114.3 points from Oct 3’s 1,367.52 to end 1,481.82 last Friday. For last week, the KLCI was up 30.9 pts or 2.19%.

Affin Investment Bank head of retail research Dr Nazri Khan believes the KLCI is likely to trend higher next week on stronger global risk appetite following twin Europe-US catalysts last week.

The factors were the long awaited plan to resolve the European debt crisis and the stronger than expected US 3rd quarter economic growth (registering the fastest quarterly GDP in a year).

“Going forward next week, we expect investors to price in stronger US/European economy as well as the reduced banking crisis risk in both continents, pushing KLCI to a possible 1,524 level (which is the KLCI high made in 2008 before the subprime crisis),” said Nazri.

Other stocks to watch are Envair Holdings Bhd, SILK Holdings Bhd and MALAYAN FLOUR MILLS BHD [] (MFM). Also in focus could be TASEK CORPORATION BHD [] and Cycle & Carriage Bhd.

Envair has received a letter of intent from Zai Corporate Finance Ltd (ZAICF), an investment banking firm based in London, to subscribe for up to 30% of its new ordinary shares of 10 sen each at the market issue price.

The ACE Market listed company said the board would deliberate on this matter and announce its decision on the private placement.

SILK chairman Datuk Mohd Azlan Hashim has said he was confident the company would be able to return to profitability in a couple of years as traffic volume picks up for its tolled highway operations and an improvement in the marine support services.

"We expect with the continued increase in traffic flow in that area, these losses will eventually be wiped out and there will be a turnaround in profitability," he said.

Malayan Flour Mills could be getting ready for the next stage of growth, having announced a series of corporate exercises in May and signing an agreement in October that would see it step into the Indonesian market, according to The Edge weekly.

Tasek's earnings fell 32.9% to RM22.10 million in the third quarter ended Sept 30, 2011 (3QFY11) from RM32.90 million a year ago, due to lower sales. Its revenue fell 7.5% to RM132.99 million from RM143.78 million. Earnings per share were 17.82 sen compared with 20.63 sen.

Cycle & Carriage Bhd’s earnings for third quarter ended Sept 30, 2011 fell 38.37% to RM5.93 million from RM9.62 million a year ago, due to lower margins and reduced non-recurring income. Revenue rose 20.6% to RM188.21 million from RM156.03 million. EPS were 5.89 sen compared to 9.55 sen the previous year.

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Maybank IB Views

COMPANY UPDATE
Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering Holdings RM5.95: Buy
Bags Telok Gas job, more to follow Shariah-compliant

A direct proxy play to PETRONAS' domestic capex programmes. We are positive on MMHE's latest Telok Gas project job win. We expect more contract wins to follow, foreseeing strong orderbook visibility extending beyond 2013. The FLNG, TLP and RAPID projects are among the high-ticket items that would propel orders and earnings growth. MMHE is among our top picks in the sector. Maintain Buy with a RM8.00 target price, based on 20x 2013 EPS.

RHB Capital RM7.20: Hold
The alternative scenario

Hold maintained. Our RHB Cap-OSK analysis thus far has assumed a merger scenario involving a share exchange at the listed entity levels of RHB Cap and OSK Holdings. If RHB Cap exchanges shares for OSK Investment Bank (OSK IB) instead, the overall cost is theoretically lower, by our estimates, subject to final pricing. Our Hold call on RHB Cap is maintained, with an unchanged RM7.60 TP (2012 P/BV target of 1.3x, ROE: 13.3%). At this juncture, we do not foresee an immediate upward re-rating of the enlarged RHB Cap if the merger goes through.

ECONOMICS
China: 3Q 2011 GDP
Soft landing so far...

3Q 2011 real GDP marked the third consecutive quarter of mild moderation in growth… China's economy continued to grow YoY by more than +9% in 3Q 2011, but the pace slowed to +9.1% from +9.5% in 2Q 2011. Consensus estimate was +9.2%. QoQ growth remained at 2% or more so far this year i.e. 3Q 2011: +2.3%; 2Q 2011: +2.4%; 1Q 2011: +2%; 4Q 2010: +2.4%. YTD, the economy expanded by +9.4% (Jan-Sep 2010: +10.6%; 2010: +10.4%).

Technicals
The FBM KLCI plunged 25.41-points to close at 1,439.94 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,439 and 1,465 will cap market gains, whilst the obvious support areas are located at 1,403 and 1,433.

Trading Idea is ENG

Other Local News
Proton: Looks to commercialise electric vehicles by 2013. Proton Holdings Bhd is looking to commercialise its electric vehicles in 2013. The Proton Saga EV is expected to be priced at RM70,000 and Proton Exora Range Extender at about RM100,000. Proton and government are also working on a mechanism to build the infrastructure for electric vehicle charging centres. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

MAS: Takes over Firefly's jet services. Malaysian Airline Systems Bhd (MAS) has embarked on a network rationalization programme in which its subsidiary, Fly Firefly Sdn Bhd, will concentrate on serving short-haul turboprop operations and Malaysia Airlines focus on enhancing its premium full-service offering. The takeover of Firefly's jet services on Dec 4 is part of the service separation plans under the business realignment exercise which addresses the continuing heavy losses being incurred by Firefly's jet operations. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

UEM: To build hospital? UEM Group Bhd and its joint venture partner Najcom Sdn Bhd are understood to have bagged the contract to build a women and children's hospital in Kuala Lumpur costing between RM700m and RM900m. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

Top Glove: To spend RM100m on plant upgrades. Top Glove Corp Bhd has allocated RM100m to upgrade and expand its factories at Sadao in Thailand. It is also looking at making more value-added variants at its Banting and Ipoh facilities. Currently, Top Glove has 21 factories and 395 production lines with a total production capacity of 35.3b pairs of gloves per annum. By May 2012, Top Glove targets to produce 41.6b pieces of gloves per annum.

Healthcare: Parkway Pantai's international push. Parkway Pantai Ltd aims to triple the revenue contribution from its international operations to 33% by expanding in Asia. It is already one of the region's biggest healthcare groups, operating more than 3,000 beds under 16 hospitals currently, and is in the process of adding another 2,300 beds in eight new hospitals from 2013 onwards. Apart from three new hospitals in Malaysia, Parkway Pantai is also building five other hospitals in Singapore, Vietnam, China, India and the United Arab Emirates. (Source: Business Times)

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Maybank IB Views

ECONOMICS
Singapore: Trade, Sep 2011
Bumpy ride...

Worse-than-expected... Singapore's non-oil domestic exports (NODX) fell by -4.5% YoY as opposed to the expected +3.5% YoY gain. At the same time, Aug 2011's growth was revised downward to +3.9% YoY (previous: +5.1% YoY). YoY figures have been swinging between growth and contraction in the past seven months, resulting in sluggish 2011 YTD growth of +3.9% (Jan-Sep 2010: +24.8%; 2011: +22.8%). Next year's NODX growth is expected to remain equally sluggish at 3.8%, according to the forecast by Maybank FX Research.

RESULTS REVIEW
Public Bank RM12.50: Hold
Decent growth but priced in

Hold maintained. 3Q11 RM899m net profit, while up a commendable 15% YoY, is broadly within expectations, with 9M11 RM2.61b net profit (+18% YoY) at 77% of our full-year forecast and consensus. Positive surprises on margins were offset by lower-than-expected non-interest income (NII). Our forecasts are maintained along with our TP of RM12.30 (2012 P/BV of 2.5x, ROE: 21.8%).

Axis REIT RM2.45: Buy
On track; better 4Q ahead

Maintain Buy. AXRB's RM48m 9M11 core net profit (+32% YoY) came in as expected. The proposed acquisition of warehouses in Seberang Perai is expected to be completed by end-11, lifting AXRB’s total assets to RM1.32b (+4.8%; from RM1.26b). AXRB aims to grow its total asset size to RM2.0b by 2012. We maintain our earnings forecasts and RM2.70 DCF-based TP. The trust's proven track record in growing its asset portfolio and dividend income will remain the pull factors.

SECTOR UPDATE
Automotive: Underweight
Cool down in September sales

Post raya and Merdeka sales dampen September TIV. The MoM contraction in Sep's vehicle sales was widely anticipated following the rush of deliveries in Aug and shorter working month. Overall, we expect a seasonally softer sales trend in 4Q from 3Q TIV sales of 153,041 units and continue to be bearish on the sector, on softer consumer spending in light of a potential global economic slowdown. The sector remains an Underweight and we retain our Hold calls on UMW and MBM while Proton and TCM remain as Sells.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI surged 22.92-points to close at 1,465.35 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,467 and 1,487 may cap market gains, whilst the obvious support areas are located at 1,445 and 1,465.

Trading Idea is MFLOUR

Other Local News
Mah Sing Group: RM2.5b sales target next year. In order to achieve its sales target of RM2.5b, Mah Sing Group plans to adjust their product mix in line with today's sentiment and needs. Mah Sing Group will focus on lower-priced and smaller units of serviced apartments in the next two years to cater to demand of the young population. (Source: The Star)

PacificMas: OCBC bids RM450m for PacificMas units. OCBC Capital Malaysia planned to acquire 100% of Pac Lease Bhd, PB Pacific Sdn Bhd, PacificMas Fidelity Sdn Bhd and PacificMas Capital Sdn Bhd as well as an 85% stake in Pacific Mutual Fund Bhd with aggregate purchase consideration of RM450m. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

Leader Universal: Controlling shareholders offer buyout. The controlling shareholders of Leader Universal Holdings Bhd, through HNG Capital Sdn Bhd (HNGC), have made a RM480.1m offer to acquire the entire assets and liabilities of the company for RM1.10 per share. The purchase shall be satisfied via RM410.9m in cash and RM69.2m as an amount remaining due and owing by HNGC as a debt due to Leader. (Source: The Star)

Proton: Offers lifetime warranty on power windows. Proton has once and for all moved to erase any doubt over defective power windows by offering a lifetime warranty for all new Proton models registered from Sept 1, 2011 and vehicles that are still under the manufacturer’s warranty as at Sept 1. (Source: The Star)

Construction: Second Penang Bridge ahead of schedule. Construction of the second Penang bridge is likely to be completed two months ahead of its projected November 2013 schedule. It is likely that work on the new bridge will achieve 70% progress by the end of this year. (Source: Business Times)

Transportation: Better KTM Komuter service by Jan 2012. KTM Komuter users can look forward to better commuting experience this January when the first of the 38 six-car electrical multiple unit (EMU) is put into service. To complement the new trains, an automatic fare collection system was being implemented and full refund will be given for trips that are delayed by more than 30 minutes. (Source: The Sun, The Star)

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Maybank IB Views

RHB Capital RM7.48: Hold
Merger talks begin

Hold maintained. While we see possible synergistic benefits to a merger with OSK, the success and financial impact of the deal will depend on the structure and pricing of the merger itself, in our view. Our Hold call on RHB Cap is maintained, with an unchanged RM7.60 TP (2012 P/BV target of 1.3x, ROE: 13.3%). At this juncture, we do not foresee an immediate upward re-rating of the enlarged RHB Cap if the merger goes through, with potential dilution in EPS and ROE, we estimate.

Padiberas Nasional RM3.22: Buy
Things are under control

No shortage of rice. Bernas has secured 800,000 tons of rice over the next 12-months via a MOU signed with the Vietnamese government. This consignment is more than enough to allay any supply disruptions due to the current Thai floods. Bernas should have no problems to supply rice at reasonable price in the next 6-12 months. We maintain our Buy call and target price of RM3.90/shr based on 8.1x 2011 PER.

SECTOR UPDATE
Property (M-REITs): Overweight
Defensive in nature

Overweight maintained. M-REITs undoubtedly provide some level of comfort in a time of volatility and we remain positive on the sector primarily for its solid fundamentals and defensive yields, which average 8.1% (gross) across the board. Our preference is for REITs in industrial properties and strategically-located malls. A re-rating catalyst could be the upcoming large-cap Pavilion REIT listing which would improve the breadth and depth of the M-REIT market. Our top pick is Axis REIT.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI rose 42.38-points and closed at 1,442.43 last Friday. The obvious support areas for the FBM KLCI are in the 1,392 to 1,442-zone. The next resistance levels of 1,453 and 1,500 will see heavy liquidation activities.

Trading Idea is MALTON.

Other Local News
Bintulu Port Holdings: Set to benefit from construction of Samalaju Port. Company will be the sole logistics play to support the Samalaju Industrial Park and is set to benefit from the soon to be constructed RM1.2b Samalaju Port. It is estimated that beginning 2013, once the port is ready, there could be at least 5m tones of raw material to be required by 10 out of the 17 confirmed investors in the Samalaju Industrial Park. (Source: Malaysian Reserve)

Nestle: Price-rise report not verified. News that Nestle is considering a price hike for certain dairy products may have sent chills down local households but the company has clarified that the reported information is not verified. (Source: The Star)

F&N: PJ plant to raise dairy product output to cover Thai shortfall. F&N confirms that it would increase dairy product production at its Petaling Jaya plant by 20% in the interim to help cater to demand in Thailand. (Source: The Star)

Uzma Bhd: Fuels growth through technological upper hand. The Intergrated oil and gas provides is confident of winning more jobs as it is the only local firm with the technology and equipment to carry out enhanced oil recovery (EOR). (Source: Business Times)

Semiconductor: Manufacturer says a recession has hit the semiconductor industry. The inventory of global chip suppliers and a low book-to-bill ratio have reached an alarming level that will have severe worldwide repercussions and impact on chip producers and semiconductor equipment manufacturers in Malaysia. (Source: The Star)

Sunway REIT: Gets SC nod for RM3b debt note issuance. Sunway Real Estate Investment Trust (Sunway REIT) has received the Securities Commission's approval for the proposed medium term note programme of RM3.0b in nominal value. (The Edge Financial Daily)

Nagamas: To develop 2,500ha in Nanning. Nagamas International Bhd has been allocated about 2,500ha near Nanning, China, to be developed as a green residential and industrial park. Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Peter Chin said Nagamas would undertake the development of the park on a long-term basis under a RM300b contract. (Source: The Star)

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Maybank IB Views

RESULTS PREVIEW
Top Glove RM4.26: Sell
Short term rally, but fundamentals weak Shariah-compliant

Maintain Sell. Upcoming 4QFY11 results is likely to disappoint by 33%. Though share price has rebounded on the weaker Ringgit vis-à-vis US dollar (still down 30% from its low in Aug '11), we would continue to avoid Top Glove as the negative impact of lower demand for its latex glove (70% of capacity) outweighs the positive impact of a stronger US dollar, and do not foresee latex cost to come off significantly. Additionally, its CY12 PER valuation is expensive at 19x. We cut FY11-13 EPS forecasts by 9-19% and lower DCF-derived TP to RM3.40 (-23%), indicating 15x CY12 PER.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI fell 6.14-points to close at 1,361.38 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,361 and 1,403 will cap market gains, whilst the weaker support areas are located at 1,310 and 1,339. Despite the US markets’ rebound tone last night, we may see a volatile tone for the index today. Some persistent foreign liquidation activities will depress the markets’ today.

Trading Idea is a Take Profit call on AIRPORT.

Other Local News
SP Setia: MSWG disagrees with SP Setia. SP Setia Bhd will need to get approval from shareholder for its recent proposed Semenyih land purchase in line with the current takeover and merger ruling. This is because the land transaction coincides with a conditional takeover offer. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

YTLP: Yusli appointed to YTL Power board. Former Bursa Malaysia Bhd CEO Datuk Yusli Mohamed Yusoff has been appointed to the BOD of YTL Power International Bhd. He was appointed to the boards of Mulpha International Bhd and listed associate Mudajaya Group Bhd in mid-July. (Source: The Star)

DiGi: Teams up with McAfee to offer security software. DiGi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd has collaborated with software security company, McAfee, to offer McAfee Internet Security and McAfee® Family Protection software. Currently, DiGi has over 5.5m mobile Internet users, of which 300k uses mobile broadband. Digi expect a double-digit growth in our mobile Internet users by year-end. (Source: The Star)

Rubber: Thailand to cut rubber supply. Thailand, the world's biggest rubber producer and exporter, plans to cut annual rubber supply by 120,000 tonnes and would ask other major producers to take action to prop up prices, senior government and industry officials said. Thailand aim to cut rubber supply to push up prices by encouraging farmers to cut down and replant rubber trees on 400,000 rai (64,000ha), starting from now, and would ask for cooperation from Indonesia and Malaysia to take similar action. (Source: The Star)

E&E: Japanese investments in E&E sector keep flowing in. There has been no let-up in interest among Japanese investors in Malaysia's electrical and electronics (E&E) sector. There continues to be interest either by way of reinvestments or interest by those companies which intends to relocate their businesses here. (Source: Business Times)

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Maybank IB Views

COMPANY UPDATE
Public Bank RM12.16: Hold
Resilience on a relative basis

Hold maintained. Our earnings are lowered by 6-7% for 2012/13, while our TP is lowered to RM12.30 from RM14.10 on a lower 2012 P/B target of 2.5x vs. 2.8x, in line with lower peer valuations. On a relative basis, nevertheless, we expect Public Bank's earnings to be resilient due to strong asset quality, while share price should be supported by a) decent gross dividend yields of 5+% and b) low foreign shareholding.

SECTOR UPDATE
Banking: Neutral
Cautious expectations

Maintain Neutral. While loan growth continues to be robust, there is approximately a 6-month lag between loan growth and GDP growth, by our estimates. In light of slower economic momentum ahead, our loan growth forecast of 12.4% this year is maintained, but lowered to 9.4% from 10.4% for 2012. Forward earnings for the banks in our coverage have been trimmed also on the back of lower non-interest income (NII) assumptions. We now project slower aggregate net profit growth of 4.3% in 2012 for banks in our universe (+9.9% previously).

Technicals
The FBM KLCI fell 19.61-points to close at 1,367.52 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,367 and 1,403 will cap market gains, whilst the weaker support areas are located at 1,310 and 1,353. Due to the US markets’ weaker tone last night, we may see a volatile tone for the index today.

Trading idea is a Take Profit call on RHBCAP
Click here for full report »
Other Local News
SP Setia: Buys land for RM381m. SP Setia Bhd has proposed to acquire land for RM381.2m to replicate its successful township development in Setia Alam and Setia Eco Park. The new land in Rinching, which is 673.3 acres and situated mid-way between Semenyih and Bangi old town, is forecast to have a gross development value (GDV) of RM4b. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

KNM: Octagon awards contract to KNM. Octagon Consolidated Bhd has awarded a USD22m (RM70.2m) contract to KNM Group Bhd to manufacture an advanced thermal gasification reactor in Sri Lanka. KNM has also been shortlisted as one of the contractors for the engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning (EPCC) contract for the waste to energy plant in Colombo, Sri Lanka. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

SapCrest: Wins RM99.5m contract. SapuraCrest Petroleum Berhad's 50%-owned associate company, Labuan Shipyard & Engineering Sdn Bhd (LSE) had been awarded a shipbuilding contract by Tanjung Offshore Berhad to engineer, construct, test and deliver one unit 77m platform supply vessel (PSV) worth RM99.5m. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

Huat Lai, Lonbisco, TPC: Huat Lai launches GO for TPC after buying 34%. Huat Lai Resources Bhd has signed a sale and purchase agreement with London Biscuit Bhd to acquire 26.9m shares or 33.7% of TPC Plus Bhd for RM8.1m and will launch a general offer for TPC. London Biscuits said the disposal of its shares in its poultry company would enable the group to focus on its core business of cakes, candies, wafers and snack confectionery. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

Wijaya Baru: To buy Indonesia land for RM255m. Wijaya Baru Global Bhd has entered into two agreements to buy 80,000ha in Indonesia for RM255.2m to replenish its timber extraction business. The agreements were with Suffolk Pte Ltd and Wealthgate Pte Ltd for USD40m cash each in total. Wijaya Baru said its last timber licence expired on July 9, 2010, and the acquisition was done in view of the loss of revenue from the timber division and the intention to maintain its core business of timber extraction. The proposed acquisition will provide an immediate and stable income stream for its core business and, at the same, time allow the group to expand its business regionally (Source: The Star)

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Maybank IB Views

ECONOMICS
US FOMC Preview
Expecting something...

The latest round FOMC meeting was originally scheduled for a day (20 Sep) but was extended to two days (20-21 Sep) to allow a fuller discussion on the economic development and outlook, as well as the Fed's policy responses. No QE3 is expected amid the lack of consensus at Fed on such policy. Instead, we are looking at the formal announcement of the "Operation Twist" where Fed will lengthen the average maturity of its securities holdings to extend the commitment to very low interest rate on the short end of the interest rate spectrum to the long end. Recall that Fed pledged to keep the fed fund rate at 0%-0.25% until at least mid-2013 at the previous FOMC meeting (9 Aug).

SECTOR UPDATE
Power: Neutral
Projek Lekas, what it means to us

Get ready for higher tariff. This report aims to quantify the impact of importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) when PETRONAS' re-gasification plant (LEKAS) is ready (expected July 2012). The imported LNG will be costlier than Tenaga's current gas supply - which is subsidized - hence, power tariff must rise to reflect this. On the flip side, Tenaga will have greater certainty of supply and avoid further incidence of having to burn costly oil and distillates, like the episode experienced in 3QFY11.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI tumbled 17.81-points to close at 1,413.12 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,413 and 1,440 will cap market gains, whilst the weaker support areas are located at 1,382 and 1,400. Due to the US markets’ weaker tone last night; we may see a volatile tone for the index today. Some persistent foreign liquidation activities may depress the markets’ today.

Trading Idea is a Take Profit call for SIME, PCHEM and IJM.

Other Local News
Sime Darby: In talks to buy Bucyrus’ distribution assets. Sime Darby Industrial Sdn Bhd (SDI) is in talks to buy the distribution assets of Bucyrus International Inc. Sime Darby might announce the deal by end of the year, adding that the acquisition would enable Sime to extend the range of its products to cover both surface and underground mining equipment. SDI expects to remain busy for the next three years with an order book of RM3b. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

AirAsia: Thai AirAsia puts off IPO to 1Q11. The Thai unit of Malaysia's AirAsia Bhd has delayed the initial public offering (IPO) of its shares to the 1Q12 from 4Q11. The delay is because it needs more time to restructure its organisation and conduct due diligence. (Source: Business Times)

Hartalega: MD to buy Budi Tenggara. Hartalega Holdings Bhd’s MD Kuan Kam Hon plans to buy 100% of Budi Tenggara Sdn Bhd, which has a direct 4.99% stake in Hartalega and a 13.9% stake in Hartalega Industries Sdn Bhd, which in turn has a 50.6% in Hartalega. If the deal goes through, Kuan will control 51.5% of Hartalega and Securities Commission has granted a waiver from making a mandatory general offer. (Source: Business Times)

BRDB: To sell four assets for RM914m. Bandar Raya Development Bhd (BRDB) has decided to part with four investment properties including Bangsar Shopping Centre , Menara BRDB, CapSquare Retail Centre and Permas Jusco Mall for a cash consideration of RM430m with net liabilities of RM484m to be assumed by the buyer, valuing the entire transaction at RM914m. Following the disposal, BRDB will distribute part of the proceeds to its shareholders via a net cash dividend of 80 sen per share. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

Plantation: Another vote against Aussie palm oil Bill. The Food Standards Amendment (Truth in Labelling - Palm Oil) Bill 2010 was rejected by Australia's House of Representatives Economics Committee in Canberra yesterday, the second committee to do so since it was tabled in Parliament. Malaysia is awaiting the final vote from the Parliament. (Source: Business Times)

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Maybank IB Views

Axiata Group RM4.81: Hold
Lacking catalysts in the short term Shariah-compliant

Hold maintained. Axiata's Analyst Day was a much welcomed opportunity to catch up on latest developments at the individual subsidiaries. Overall, however, we see little share price catalyst for the group in the near term amid a challenging environment, with stiff competition particularly in the Indonesian, Cambodian and domestic markets. Reflecting this outlook, our cost of equity is raised to 11.8% from 11.1% and our sum-of-parts TP is cut to RM5.10 from RM5.50.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI rose 1.74-points to close at 1,448.00 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,448 and 1,467 will cap market gains, whilst the weaker support areas are located at 1,423 and 1,445. Despite the US markets’ minor rebound tone last night; we may see a volatile tone for the local bourse today.In the longer-term, we foresee an eventual move to 1,378.66 (the next EW extension target).

Trading Idea is a Take Profit call on HLBANK.

Other Local News
TNB: May have to raise funds to keep going. Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) may look to the market to raise funds to sustain itself amid concerns on the continued gas shortage as it has to spend an additional RM3b on power generation this year. (Source: The Malaysian Reserve)

MAS: Sponsorship for Queen Park Rangers jersey to cost RM18m. Malaysia Airlines' (MAS) recently-announced sponsorship for the Queen Park Rangers (QPR) home jersey in the Barclays Premier League will cost the national carrier some RM18m. The total sponsorship fee for both MAS and AirAsia for the English professional football club, which involves a term of two years, would cost some RM30m. (Source: The Star)

Bursa: FCPO volume hits new high. Bursa Malaysia Derivatives' (BMD) crude palm oil (CPO) futures set a new record at the close of mid-day trading yesterday, with a total of 4.07m contracts traded YTD. Open interest for FCPO contracts on BMD has also risen steadily on the back of an even mix of players in the futures market. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

Ramunia: Confident of Bursa approval. Ramunia Holdings Bhd is confident it will get its regularisation plans approved as soon as it sorts out safety issues associated with its newly-acquired Pulau Indah Oilfab fabrication yard. Some parts of the Oilfab fabrication yard were found to be without a valid Certificate of Fitness, an official document that states that a building is safe to be occupied. (Source: Business Times)


Iskandar: Farglory may invest in Iskandar Malaysia. Taiwan-based Farglory Group has expressed interest in setting up industrial parks in Iskandar Malaysia in Johor. If the interest were to materialise, it would attract investments from Taiwan and other countries as well. Farglory is Taiwan's leading international land development and construction company that operates in Taiwan, China, the US and France. (Source: The Malaysian Reserve)

O&G: M'sia proposes two oil and gas related projects in Brunei. Malaysia has proposed to undertake two oil and gas (O&G)-related projects in Brunei. One of the projects is Petronas to build a petrochemical complex with BASF in Pulau Muara Besar, involving an investment of about USD1.6 bilion, while the other is the development of a fabrication yard by Petronas' subsidiary, Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering Holdings Bhd. (Source: The Star)

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Maybank IB Views

Construction: Overweight
Offers shelter from external turmoils

Maintain Overweight. Construction awards should pick up after a slow 1H 2011, to provide the multiplier impact to the domestic economy in anticipation of a slowdown at the global front. During the previous major downturns, government development spending continued to rise. Over the near-term, this will include the new public-private partnership (PPP) projects. We expect major awards only in 2012 relating to the MRT and SCORE. Our top buys are still Gamuda and Hock Seng Lee (HSL).

COMPANY UPDATE
Gamuda RM3.03: Buy
Record profits, Vietnam's conundrum Shariah-compliant

Record profits, Vietnam's conundrum. Gamuda's final results, due on 29 Sept, should meet expectations for record profits in FY11. We forecast FY12 to be another record year, on strong domestic property sales locked in. Nonetheless, we have tweaked our FY12-13 net profit forecasts by -1% after factoring lower sales forecast for the Vietnam property projects. We also reduce our RNAV-based TP to RM4.10 (-8%) after adjusting for lowered GDVs for the Vietnam projects and other house-keepings. The stock remains our top pick in construction.

ECONOMICS
Industrial Production Index (IPI), Jul '11
On slippery pole...

Volatile monthly industrial production trend… Industrial production in Jul '11 slipped back into the red as it contracted by -0.6% YoY (revised Jun'11: +1.3% YoY; Maybank-IB: +1.7% YoY; consensus: +2.4% YoY), dragged primarily by mining output and not helped by slower manufacturing production. MoM, the overall index fell by -0.6% (Jun: +1.3% MoM). For the first seven months of 2011, total output expanded by a mere +0.2% YoY (2010: + 7.2% YoY). Excluding mining, the adjusted industrial production grew by +1.8% YoY (June '11: +4.8% YoY).

Technicals
The FBM KLCI fell 4.97-points and closed at 1,469.12 last Friday. The local market remained somewhat quiet in lack luster and low volume trading. The weaker support areas for the FBM KLCI are located in the 1,423 to 1,455-zone. The next resistance levels of 1,469 and 1,511 will see very heavy liquidation activities.

Trading Idea is a Short-Term Buy call on KFIMA.

Other Local News
Sime: Open to GO for E&O. Sime Darby Bhd is open to increase its stake and make a general offer (GO) for Eastern & Oriental Bhd (E&O) shares at the right time, having recently purchased a 30% stake in the latter at RM2.30 per share, said its president and group CEO Datuk Mohd Bakke Salleh. (Source: The Star)

CIMB: Nazir reorganizes CIMB. CIMB Group Holdings Bhd has embarked on its biggest reorganization since a restructuring in 2005 gave birth to the second largest banking group in the country. After the exercise, CIMB’s group management committee will be trimmed to 15 people from 21. Datuk Seri Nazir Razak will hold dual functions as group CEO and head of Malaysian consumer bank. Meanwhile, Datuk Charon Wardini Mokhzani will be designated as CEO of CIMB Investment Bank Bhd. (Source: The Edge Financial Weekly)

UEM Land: 5 biotech proposals. Malaysian Biotechnology Corp says five more foreign biotech companies are planning to invest millions of ringgit at BioXCell@Nusajaya. One of them is India’s Biotech giant, Biocon Ltd that will be setting up a RM500m plant in BioXCell. UEM Land holds 40% equity in Malaysian BioXCell with remaining 60% held by Biotech Corp. (Source: The Star)

O&G: Gas Malaysia guarantees dividends in first two years, IPO set at RM2.20/sh. Gas Malaysia Bhd will pay a guaranteed dividend of 100% and 75% in the first two years, respectively, after floating its shares on Bursa Malaysia in December this year. Separately, Gas Malaysia shares will be sold at an indicative offer price of RM2.20 a share to prospective investors. (Source: The Star, The Malaysian Reserve)

Construction: Works Ministry to discuss Bumi contracts with Prasarana. The Works Ministry will hold discussions with Syarikat Prasarana Negara Bhd to identify job scope and contracts worth RM8b to be distributed to Bumiputera contractors via the implementation of the Sg-Buloh-Kajang stretch of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. (Source: Bernama)

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Maybank IB Views

BNM Monetary Policy
No change in key policy instruments...

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) kept the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) at 3.00% and the Statutory Reserve Requirement (SRR) at 4% following its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting yesterday. BNM’s decision to leave both OPR and SRR unchanged sent a strong signal that the central bank’s monetary policy bias has shifted to supporting growth. We see the OPR staying at current 3% level at least until mid-2012, although it is possible that this could be extended into 3Q 2012. The same goes for SRR, as BNM's monetary policy now seek to not only maintain accommodative cost of financing, but also to ensure availability of liquidity to support growth.

Economic Transformation Programme (ETP)
Update #7

PM announced 8 new entry point projects (EPP) under the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) involving RM1.43b investments in six National Key Economic Areas (NKEAs). The biggest investment was in the palm oil NKEA where KL Kepong will invest RM706m in four downstream projects. Cumulatively, over half of EPPs and over one-fifth of investment targets have been announced. On progress of earlier announced EPPs, 26% are fully operational, 57% have commenced implementation, and 16% are still work-in-progress.

External Trade, Jul 2011
A mixed bag of data...

Exports growth of +7.1% YoY in Jul '11 was better than expected (revised Jun '11: +9.6% YoY, Maybank-IB: +4.6% YoY; Consensus: +6.6% YoY). But import growth came in below estimates at +2.9% YoY (revised Jun '11: +6.9% YoY, Maybank-IB: +4.1% YoY; Consensus: +6.5% YoY). As export growth outpaced import growth, the trade surplus was a larger-than-expected RM9.45b (revised Jun '11: +RM7.88b, Maybank-IB: +RM7.6b; Consensus: +RM7.8b). MoM, exports gained by +2.4% while imports fell by -0.4%. YTD, exports rose by +6.9% while imports increased by +8.7% giving a RM68.6b trade surplus. Our full-year forecasts for export growth, import growth and trade surplus are +8.4%, +10.8% and RM106.9b respectively.
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SECTOR UPDATE
Telcos: Neutral
6% service tax passed through

A pleasant surprise. That the 6% service tax will be passed through from the telcos to prepaid customers is a pleasant surprise. While this move has been talked about for awhile, the timing of it is earlier than expected. Biggest beneficiary of this is Digi, with its larger prepaid customer base. The telco sector remains defensive for its domestic focus and decent yields - Telekom remains our top pick.

COMPANY UPDATE
Digi.Com RM31.12: Hold
Capital management plans Shariah-compliant

Marginally positive, Hold maintained. Digi's proposals ensure that as much is returned to shareholders out of reserves as possible. In addition to the expected nominal DPS of RM1.63/share in 2011, investors could possibly see another 30sen in special DPS next year. Separately, we have raised 2012/2013 earnings by 8% and 6% respectively and our DCF-derived TP has been lifted to RM31.50 with the pass-through in the 6% service tax (see separate writeup today).

Kuala Lumpur Kepong RM21.60: Hold
Seeking downstream growth Shariah-compliant

Rain or shine, expansion goes on. KLK will invest RM706m capex in 4 downstream projects in Malaysia, PM Najib announced during the Economic Transformation Programme update session yesterday. While the impact may only be felt three years later, we are nonetheless positive on this development especially as it comes along with RM134m of approved MPOB grants to reduce costs and enhance returns. No earnings impact for now; funding is not an issue. Maintain Hold with an unchanged TP of RM21.60 based on 16x FY12 EPS.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI ended 5.22-points higher to close at 1,469.83 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,471 and 1,497 will cap market gains, whilst the obvious support areas are located at 1,443 and 1,469. Due to the US markets’ weaker tone last night, we may see a steady tone for the local bourse today. Some further profit-taking activities may persist to depress the markets’ rebound from its recent 1,423.47 low.

Trading idea is a Short-term Buy call on MALTON

Other Local News
TNB: Sees delay in gas recovery. Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) gas supply curtailment issues are likely to continue as the key Bekok field is only expected to commence operations by another month. The expected delay is paired with another negative surprise TNB might not get back the full 150-200m standard cu ft per day (mmscfd) as it has to share the capacity with the industrial sector. (Source: The Star)

DRB-HICOM: Going for more M&As. DRB-HICOM Bhd is still hungry for more mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to add synergy to its core businesses and to expand its operating profit. It is allocating RM700m to RM1b as capital expenditure. This comprises investments for its Volkswagen assembly, the design and manufacturing of BAE System's 8x8 armoured wheel vehicles, and property development along with its automotive university college in Pekan. (Source: The Star)

Puncak Niaga: Syabas files RM1.05b suit against Selangor Government. Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor Sdn Bhd (Syabas), a subsidiary of Puncak Niaga Holdings Bhd, has filed a RM1.05b claim against the Selangor Government. The claim, filed at the Kuala Lumpur High Court, was for compensation for the period from Jan 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011 from the state government under the 2004 concession agreement between Syabas, the Federal Government and the Selangor Government. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

Consumer: McD Malaysia to open 87 new restaurants by 2014. McDonald's Malaysia will invest RM348m to open another 87 restaurants by 2014, spending RM4m on each new restaurant. The company aims to have 100 franchised stores by 2014. Currently, it has 13 local franchisees in Malaysia and 27 franchised restaurants. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

Utilities: 1MDB evaluating plan to privatise Indah Water. 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) is evaluating a plan to privatise Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd (IWK), the national sewerage company. It is believed that 1MDB is part of a consortium that intends to take over IWK. The other member of the consortium is believed to be either Puncak Niaga Holdings Bhd or controlling shareholders of the company. (Source: Business Times)

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Maybank IB Views

Alam Maritim Resources RM0.73: Hold
Stepping up contract wins Shariah-compliant

Bags RM220m of OSV contracts, a positive. OSV hiring is gaining momentum, reflecting the improving prospects for local-flagged vessels in tandem with the intensification of PETRONAS' capex programs. However, Alam’s fleet growth remains constrained by its stretched balance sheet, impeding its earnings potential. Maintain Hold with a RM0.85 target price, pegged to 9x 2012 EPS.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI tumbled 8.75 points to close at 1,454.37 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,454 and 1,474 will cap market gains, whilst the weaker support areas are located at 1,423 and 1,450.Due to the US markets’ weaker tone last night; we will see a softer mode for the local bourse today.

Trading Idea is a Take Profit call on RHBCAP

Other Local News
RHBCap: Looks for new chief by year-end, Delays application to buy Bank Mestika. RHB Bank Bhd is on the lookout for a new MD now since Renzo Viegas, its principal officer that was supposed to be MD, intends to take time off. A potential candidate is likely to be finalised soon, possibly in the next two to three weeks, and will likely be appointed before the year-end if the central bank has no objections to the candidate. RHBCap has put on hold its application to acquire Indonesia's PT Bank Mestika Dharma pending a review by Indonesia’s central bank to impose a limit on single-party ownership in commercial banks there. (Source: Business Times)

MAS: US firm sues for USD80m. Malaysian Airline System Bhd has been sued by GIRO — Warranty House International Inc, which is seeking damages of up to USD80m (RM239m). MAS is reviewing the complaint with the assistance of external counsel. (Source; Bursa Malaysia)

Sime Darby: E&O deal under scrutiny. The securities commission (SC) is examining the circumstances of the transaction involving Sime Darby buying 30% stake in Eastern & Oriental Bhd. The premium paid by Sime Darby is one, among several factors which the SC will take into consideration in deciding whether an acquirer has obtained control of a company. (Source: The Star)

Mining: Perak passes EIA reports for Brazil's Vale to set up maritime terminal. The Perak state government has passed the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports for Brazilian mining giant Vale SA to set up a maritime terminal in Teluk Rubiah near Lumut. Vale is investing an initial USD1.4b, or RM4.1b, to develop the first phase of an iron ore complex with capacity to dock vessels and handle as much as 30m tonnes of iron ore a year, starting 1H14. (Source: Business Times)

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Maybank IB Views

Banking: Neutral
Earnings growth cut

Neutral. We maintain our Neutral stance on the banking sector on the premise that valuations are fair for most of the stocks within our coverage, particularly amid a competitive operating environment and slower earnings growth projections. Top picks in the sector continue to be AMMB Holdings, BIMB Holdings and CIMB Holdings.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI rebounded 29.28-points and closed at 1,474.09 last Friday. The local market remained somewhat firm on low volume buying on blue chip stocks as the bourse played catch-up with global markets over the 3-day holiday break. The weaker support areas for the FBM KLCI are located in the 1,423 to 1,470-zone. The next resistance levels of 1,474 and 1,511 will see very heavy liquidation activities.

Trading Idea is a technical Take Profit call on GAMUDA.

Other Local News
AirAsia: EPF buys 10m more shares. The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) had bought 4.27m shares on Aug 25 and 5.72m shares the following day. With the acquisition, EPF increased its equity interest to 12.5%. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

RHB: Withdraws MD application to Bank Negara. RHB Banking Group has withdrawn its application to Bank Negara Malaysia to seek the appointment of Renzo Viegas as MD of RHB Bank Bhd. The reason for the withdrawal is its current internal reorganization. (Source: The Edge Financial Weekly)

BRDB: To reward shareholders, divest BSC. Bandar Raya Developments Bhd (BDRB) is looking to pay a bumper dividend to its shareholders in a complex corporate exercise that may see it dispose its Bangsar Shopping Centre (BSC). (Source: The Edge Financial Weekly)

Plantation: Oil palm seeds to cost 30% more. The price of oil palm seeds, now at RM1.85 each, will be raised by 30% to RM2.35 starting January next year. The increase is due to the recent hike in labour wages and foreign worker levy, fertiliser cost, electricity tariff and packaging material cost. (Source: Business Times)

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Maybank IB Views

US Economy
Blast from the (distant & recent) past

Waiting for Bernanke's speech at the Federal Reserve Annual Symposium...Low expectations of an announcement or hint of a third round of asset purchase programme (QE3) with a more likely outcome to be a complement to the FOMC announcement on 9 August to keep the 0%-0.25% federal fund rate until mid-2013 with the same commitment to maintain the current size of Fed's balance sheet.

Malaysia
2Q 2011 Balance of Payments

FDI net inflows in 1H 2011 after four consecutive years of net outflows. Portfolio investment net inflows surged to RM48.055b in 2Q 2011 (1Q 2011: RM8.375b) and to RM56.430b in 1H 2011 (1H 2010: RM26.684b). Sustained current account surplus of RM23.397b in 2Q 2011 (1Q 2011: RM25.894b) and RM49.292b in 1H 2011 (1H 2010: RM44.082b).

RESULTS REVIEW
Maxis RM5.40: Hold
A defensive proposition Shariah-compliant

Hold maintained. 1H11 results were decent but marginally below expectations at 45% of our full-year forecast and consensus, the miss primarily being slower-than-expected voice revenue growth, though this is expected to pick up in the 2H. Positively, margins were preserved. Maxis provides for defensive yields but the extent of margin erosion from the launch of its home broadband services remains an uncertainty to earnings. Our DCF-derived TP of RM5.50 is maintained on WACC of 7.5% and 1% terminal growth assumptions.


Sunway Bhd RM2.29: Buy
One-off costs hit earnings

Below expectations. Sunway's 1H11 RM132m core net profit accounted for 40% of our and consensus full-year estimates. We lower our 2011-13 earnings forecasts by 9-15% and RNAV-based TP to RM3.78 (-7sen). Sunway continues to trade at a steep 40% discount to our RNAV. Buy. Positive re-rating catalysts include potential MRT job wins. During times of uncertainties, stable rental/dividend/manager fees from investment properties would provide the cushion to its earnings.

AEON Co. (M) RM6.95: Buy
The Bandar Utama impact

Weaker 1H within expectation. 1H11 recurring net profit of RM64.5m, after excluding the fire insurance proceeds of RM10.9m received in 1Q11, was 36% of our full-year forecast and consensus. We look to a stronger 2H with renewed contributions from renovated Jusco Bandar Utama (JBU). Our Buy call and RM7.90 TP are maintained.

BIMB Holdings RM2.00: Buy
Still as liquid as ever

Buy maintained. What BIMB continues to offer is a turnaround story of what is now a well-capitalized commercial bank (15.6% core capital ratio) with a very liquid balance sheet (net financing/deposit ratio of just 54%), a well-managed and profitable composite insurance outfit as well as a potential M&A story, given the possibility of shareholding changes. Our Buy call is maintained with a SOP-derived target price of RM2.40.

Carlsberg Brewery (M) RM6.85: Buy
The desired taste

16.5% YoY growth in 1H11 net profit to RM80m, which was 52% of our and consensus full-year forecasts. Results were within our expectation and we maintain our Buy call on the stock while our RM8.00 TP is unchanged. Valuations are decent at current levels, with the stock trading at a prospective 2012 PER of 12.9x against a historical mean of 16.7x, with gross yields of 4.9%. Near term, however, we expect sentiment toward the stock be cautious ahead of Budget 2012 with uncertainties over possibly higher duties.

Media Chinese International Limited RM1.14: Hold
Paper cuts from higher newsprint prices Shariah-compliant

Higher newsprint prices and slower adex growth looms. Media Chinese International Limited's (MCIL) 1QFY12 results were within expectations. That said, higher newsprint prices have had an adverse impact on earnings. Furthermore, we understand that adex growth will decelerate further into 2HFY12. We trim our FY12-14 earnings estimates by 2%-6% and TP from RM1.40 to RM1.14 (-19%).

Sarawak Oil Palms RM4.20: Buy
Too good to ignore Shariah-compliant

Explosive 2Q. SOP's RM69m 2Q11 net profit (+132% YoY; +24% QoQ) exceeded our and market expectations, boosted by high FFB production and low all-in cost of production. We raised our 2011 earnings by 6% and reiterate our Buy call with unchanged RM6.80 TP (13x 2012 PER). With 42.5% of estates still immature, SOP offers robust 16% 3-year CAGR in FFB production, 21% 3-year CAGR EPS, and yet trades at 8x 2012 PER. Its traded EV/planted ha of RM32,000 is cheap relative to recently transacted prices exceeding RM50,000/ha.

Wah Seong Corporation RM2.14: Buy
In line; orders set to kick-in Shariah-compliant

Maintain Buy. 1H11 results tracked expectations despite a weaker QoQ performance. We retain our forecasts and anticipate more new contracts in 2H. WSC remains a Buy with a RM3.10 target price (14x 2012 EPS). The stock now trades at just 10x one-year forward PER, one standard deviation below mean, which we think, underscores its near-term job wins and earnings potential. Meanwhile, the board has decided to delay Wasco’s listing exercise, citing weak market condition.

Hock Seng Lee RM1.48: Buy
Constructive growth Shariah-compliant

On track for 23% full-year growth. 1H11 net profit of RM38.6m (+22% YoY) met 43% of our full-year forecast and 42% of consensus. We expect a stronger 2H, leading to a sizeable 23% expansion in core net profit for 2011. We remain positive on HSL benefiting from the expected strong work flows in Sarawak. We reiterate our Buy call with a RM2.30 target price based on 12x multiple on 2012 earnings.

CB Industrial Product RM3.84:Buy
Catalyst from cash Shariah-compliant

Maintain Buy. CBIP's RM24m 2Q11 net profit (+86% YoY; 9.7% QoQ) brings 1H11 net profit to RM46m (+84% YoY), within our expectation but ahead of consensus. Its recent strategic proposed disposal of two plantation subsidiaries for RM268m cash could add 9.5% to our present TP. Future plans to utilize disposal proceeds also act as a catalyst to share price. We maintain our forecasts and TP of RM4.75 based on 7x 2011 EPS pending further clarity on cash utilisation. Still a Buy.

Eastern Pacific Industrial Corp RM3.05: Accept Offer
Inline; just awaiting GO completion Shariah-compliant

1H earnings inline; GO determines the price now. 1H11 net profit of RM27m was in-line at 49% of our full year forecast. In-light of the impending Mandatory General Offer (MGO), no dividend was declared. We maintain our Hold call and leave our RM3.10 TP unchanged, pegged at the RM3.10 offer price, implying 1.6% upside.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI fell 4.41 points to close at the 1,464.74 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,464 and 1,488 will cap market gains, whilst the weaker support areas are located at 1,423 and 1,454. Due to the US markets’ weaker tone last night; we will see a softer for the local bourse today. Some pre-Hari Raya holiday liquidation activities may persist to depress the markets’ rebound from its recent 1,423.47 low.

Trading idea is a Take Profit call on Axiata.

Other Local News
MAS: New managing director found? It is learned that the executive committee decided on the new MD after a meeting yesterday. Ahmad Jauhari Yahya, the former CEO of power producer Malakoff Bhd, has been offered the job to lead the embattled national airline. (Source: Business Times)

Megasteel: Dissapointed with Miti’s decision. Megasteel Sdn Bhd says its disappointed that the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (Miti) has decided against implementing the 35% safeguard duty on the import of hot-rolled coil (HRC) the steel giant had petitioned for in June. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

SDB: To launch RM1b projects in next 12 months. Selangor Dredging Bhd (SDB) has in its pipeline property launches worth almost RM1b in GDV in Malaysia and Singapore by the end of 2012. The group expects contribution from Singapore to be at par with Malaysia’s in two years. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

LTKM: Counts on it recession proof sector. LTKM Bhd is planning to maintain its current level of egg production, as it looked to capitalise on the recession-proof nature its business. LTKM currently produces an average of 1.4m eggs per day. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

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Maybank IB Views

KNM Group RM1.48: Sell
Poor delivery, Sell Shariah-compliant

Downgrade to Sell, target price cut to RM1.19 (-41%). 1H results were a letdown, prompting us to cut 2011-13 earnings by up to 64% p.a.. While KNM delivered on topline, bottomline was a disappointment, felled by cost overruns and high operating expenses. While the share price has underperformed by 48% YTD, we expect performance to be further suppressed. There is no sign of an operating recovery and cost control is absent. Further, valuations are expensive now.

Alam Maritim Resources RM0.78: Hold
Results improve but recovery lingers Shariah-compliant

Pacing but not running. Alam returned to profitability in 2Q but overall, 1H results still missed expectations. Operationally, Alam is showing signs of a turnaround but the catalyst to warrant an upgrade remains elusive. Its stretched balance remains a concern, debilitating its ability to grow. Maintain Hold with a lower target price of RM0.85, based on a reduced 9x 2012 EPS (versus 12x previously).

QL Resources RM2.98: Buy
Margin erosion Shariah-compliant

Below expectations. 1QFY12 results were below consensus and our full-year numbers, with margin contraction seen in the 2 main divisions. Total net profit of RM27.8m (+3.7% YoY, -11.9% QoQ) made up 17% and 19% of our forecast and consensus for FY12. We do expect stronger earnings in the coming quarters and QL remains a Buy. Our forecasts are nevertheless revised down on lower margin expectations and our target price is lowered to RM3.39.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI fell 11.82 points to close at the 1,472.16 yesterday in persistent selling activities. Its resistance areas of 1,472 and 1,500 will cap market gains, whilst the weaker support areas are located at 1,423 and 1,467.


Other Local News
Aeon: Upbeat on 'new' Jusco at 1Utama. Aeon Co (M) Bhd expects the newly renovated and relocated Jusco store in 1Utama Shopping Centre to ring in more sales than previously. The Japan-based retailer is optimistic that it will make RM300m within a year from yesterday. It had made over RM200m in a year previously. (Source: Business Times)

CIMB: Among banks hired for planned MU listing. English football club Manchester United has hired a slew of banks including Malaysia's CIMB Group for its planned listing on the Singapore stock exchange. The US-based Glazer family hired Hong Kong-based BOC International, Malaysia's CIMB, Singapore's DBS and pan-Asian investment bank CLSA as joint lead managers, in a move that suggested the owners are keen to get a well-diversified regional spread of investors. (Source: Business Times)

Maxis: In cloud computing connection with MDeC. Maxis Bhd aims to work closely with the Multimedia Development Corp (MDeC) to establish joint programmes to promote adoption of cloud computing services for independent software vendors. The collaboration will accelerate the adoption of cloud technology by software vendors and businesses. It will also pave the way for an array of enterprise-grade cloud solutions to become available to Malaysian businesses. (Source: Business Times)

IJMP: To invest over RM1b to double up Indonesian venture. IJM Plantations Bhd is investing more than RM1b to double its total planted area in Indonesia to 40,000ha and expects to see substantial earnings contribution from the venture from 2014 onwards. IJM Plantations expects Indonesia to contribute one third of its earnings when planting is completed in Indonesia by 2014 and eventually its contribution is expected to be bigger than the earnings from its Malaysian plantation. (Source: The Malaysian Reserve)

Transportation: Prasarana to manage MRT issues till handover. Syarikat Prasarana Negara Berhad (Prasarana) will continue to manage all issues related to the My Rapid Transit (MRT) project until the establishment of MRT Co. Prasarana would carry on with all works and programmes that has been decided before it officially hands it over to the new MRT Co. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

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Maybank IB Views

MISC RM7.10: Sell
Brace for further impact Shariah-compliant

Poor visibility. We cut our 2012 EPS forecast by a further 19% post analyst briefing for Apr-Jun 2011 results. Visibility continues to be poor, extending up to 2013. We do not see a recovery in the liner, chemical and petroleum divisions, hit by supply overhang and depressed rates. This offsets positives from the other divisions: heavy engineering, offshore, and LNG shipping. Our TP of RM6.44 remains unchanged, based on a 15% discount to our SOP valuation.

Malaysia Airports Holdings RM6.45: Buy
Higher charges, finally

Positive surprise. MAHB has confirmed that it has been granted the approval to impose higher charges on: (1) international passengers (passenger service charge or PSC); (2) landing for aircraft; and (3) parking for aircraft. This will take effect on 15 September 2011 and will positively impact future earnings. MAHB is our top aviation pick as it is well placed to enjoy the longer term growth in air travel. Maintain Buy, with an unchanged target price of RM7.55/share DCF-based.

Hock Seng Lee RM1.46: Buy
A new water job Shariah-compliant

Small replenishment; maintain Buy. HSL's RM45.7m job win will lift its outstanding order book to RM1.15b, and contribute RM5.5m in net profit into 2012, we estimate. We maintain our earnings forecasts having imputed job win assumptions earlier. We are still positive on HSL for an exposure to Sarawak construction. Our target price is unchanged at RM2.30 based on 12x 2012 PER. Share price has fallen back to single digit valuations alongside the weak broader market; the stock is looking more attractive at current levels.

RESULTS PREVIEW
AirAsia RM3.64: Hold
Challenging 2Q11 Shariah-compliant

Yields, fuel and Firefly. We expect AirAsia's 2Q11 to show a marginal YoY profit growth buoyed exclusively by its Thai associate. We expect the Malaysian and Indonesian operations to exhibit profit drop due to 28% rise in fuel prices and soft yield environment, consistent to the industry and further exacerbated by Firefly’s jet operations services to East Malaysia. We maintain our Hold call at RM3.36 target price, based on 9.0x 2011 PER which is 10% discount to global LCCs’ PER.

Malaysian Airline System RM1.66: Buy
2Q11: Expect losses

Yields, fuel and Japan. MAS will release its 2Q11 results on 23 Aug. 2Q11 is expected to be loss-making due to the impact of 28% higher fuel price YoY and some impact from the MENA civil unrest and Japanese natural disasters. Despite this negative environment, we advice investors to overlook this quarter as the Company’s future is much better now with stabilizing fuel price, new aircraft benefits and the tie-up with AirAsia. We maintain our Buy recommendation with a target price of RM2.70, pegged to 9.0x 2012 PER - on par with global peers.
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RESULTS REVIEW
UMW Holdings RM7.22: Hold
O&G sees red, auto loses traction Shariah-compliant

Challenging mid-term prospects. UMW's 2Q underperformance validates our contrarian view and concerns over its O&G and auto operations. Issues like the supply chain from Japan's March earthquake and tsunami and anti-dumping effect will persist in 2H. Maintain Hold with a RM7.20 target price, based on 12x 2011 EPS.

TSH Resources RM3.15: Buy
Windfall harvest Shariah-compliant

Outperformed. TSH's 1H11 net profit of RM60m (+165% YoY) accounted for 59% and 54% of our and consensus full year estimates respectively. TSH outperformed expectations backed by higher than expected FFB production. We raise our 2011 earnings forecast by 7.1% but trimmed 2012-13 forecasts by 0.6-0.7% on higher wages assumption by RM200 per month for Malaysian plantation workers. We maintain our Buy call with an adjusted TP of RM3.81 (15x 2012 PER; previously RM3.84) on the lowered earnings.
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Eversendai Corporation RM1.68: Buy
Buy ahead of job-flows Shariah-compliant

Results show strong growth. 1H11 net profit of RM57m was 46% of our full-year forecast and 49% of consensus. We initiate coverage on Eversendai with a Buy and TP of RM2.17 (based on 12x CY12 PER). Key attributes: (i) job-flow prospects are bright and we expect major wins in the next 6 months; (ii) Eversendai has built itself an above-industry margin business franchise yet valuation of 9x 2012 PER is at a 30% discount to big-cap peers; (iii) our belief that pump-priming is an obvious and politically easy tool in addressing macro-economic slump.

ACQUISITIONS / DISPOSAL
Star Publications (Malaysia) RM3.39: Hold
Revises terms of disposal for Section 13 land Shariah-compliant

More favourable terms. Star's new agreement with JAKS Island Circle (JIC) to raise the consideration for its Section 13 land sale by RM24m to RM135m is positive. The land disposal will add 14 sen/sh in value by end-2014. We however maintain our earnings estimates as the timing for the gain recognition is beyond our estimates horizon. We also maintain our Hold call and RM3.54 DCF-based TP.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI added a meagre 0.31-points and closed at 1,483.98 last Friday. The weaker support areas for the FBM KLCI are located in the 1,423 to 1,477-zone. The next resistance levels of 1,483 and 1,597 will see heavy selling and liquidation activities.

Trading Idea is Tenaga

Other Local News
SunCity and Sunway: To be delisted. The shares of Sunway City Bhd (SunCity) and Sunway Holdings Bhd would be delisted from the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia on Aug 23. The new entity would be known as Sunway Bhd. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

MMHE: Secures RM952m contracts. Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering Holdings Bhd (MMHE) has secured two contracts worth RM952m from MISC Bhd for topsides fabrication, marine repair and conversion of two energy vessels. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

Crescendo: Plans RM2.5b township. Crescendo Corp Bhd (CCB) is set to launch its new mixed development property project, Bandar Cemerlang township in Mukim Tebrau, Johor Baru with a gross development value (GDV) of RM2.5b by year-end. The completion of the Johor Baru-Kota Tinggi highway in June this year has improved accessibility and connectivity to its project. (Source: The Star)

Green technology: Green loans. Commercial banks, which are currently shying away from lending to green companies, may have to set aside an allocation to finance green technology projects. Malaysian Green Technology Corp (MGTC) CEO Dr Nazily Mohd Noor said this was one of the suggestions made during a discussion at the Green Technology and Climate Change Council, chaired by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, two weeks ago. (Source: Business Times)

Property: Foreigners not shying away from prices. Malaysia property products are currently hot on the radar of international investors and property buyers, in view of the domestic real estate market potential to see a steady growth in prices. (Source: The Malaysian Reserve)

EPF: Confirms buying London office block for RM740m. The Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) has confirmed that it has purchased an office block in St James's Square, London, where one of the tenants has one of London's highest rents, for RM740m. This marks EPF's fourth property investment in London since announcing an allocation of RM1b for British property purchases about a year ago. Including this latest purchase, it has spent RM634m. (Source: The Star)

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Maybank IB Views

Construction: Overweight
LRT final packages go to Sunway, MRCB

Maintain Overweight. Sunway's RM569m win is a pleasant surprise after press reports of the Kelana Jaya Line Package B going to TRC Synergy. MRCB's RM1.33b win is also above the RM800m-RM900m estimates for the Ampang Line Package B. The LRT chapter, in terms of awards for the civil works portion, is coming to an end, with all eyes now to focus on the MRT which will enter the tendering stage for the elevated works portion – to be called in stages over Sept-Dec 2011. Our fair value for Sunway is RM3.85 while we are Not Rated on MRCB.

COMPANY UPDATE
Dialog Group RM2.67: Buy
New leg, new growth, new perspective Shariah-compliant

Bagging the Balai RSC is sentiment positive. Dialog is in good hands. RoC Oil and PCSB are reputable partners. Funding is not an issue. While Balai is expected to be more challenging than the Berantai project, the risk is mitigated as capex is fully recoverable under the RSC. We opine that the consortium will likely bag the next RSC (i.e. Belantara) to make it a more economical investment. Maintain Buy with an unchanged RM3.35 target price, based on sum-of-part valuations.

RESULTS REVIEW
Kuala Lumpur Kepong RM21.10: Hold
Big boost from FFB output recovery Shariah-compliant

Downgrade to Hold. 3QFY11 RM420m recurring net profit (+72% YoY,+85% QoQ) brings 9MFY11 recurring net profit to RM1,047m (+49% YoY), which met 78% and 74% of our and consensus full-year forecasts. The results were marginally above our forecast on a lower tax rate. We tweak up our 2011 forecast. The stock has outperformed the KLCI since we first upgraded our call on 24 Jun 2010, chalking up 29% in capital gain. We change our valuation methodology to PER (from SOP) pegging the stock to 16x FY12 based on an unchanged 2012 RM3,000/t CPO ASP assumption for the sector. Given limited upside to our new TP of RM21.60, we downgrade the stock to a Hold.

WCT RM2.87: Buy
Impacted by forex Shariah-compliant

Below forecasts. RM75m 1H11 net profit (+9% YoY) made up 41% of our full-year forecast of RM184m due to an unexpected RM13m forex loss from the stronger Ringgit. We have lowered our 2011-12 forecasts by 8-9%. Our new target price is RM3.50 based on SOP (unchanged 15x 2012 PER + 20sen value increment from KLIA2 retail concession). Share price has consolidated along the broader market with the stock trading at 12.9x one-year forward earnings. Maintain Buy.

JT International RM6.90: Buy
Momentarily weaker

Below expectations. JTI's 1H11 net profit of RM65m (-8.9% YoY) accounts for 45% and 47% of our and consensus full-year forecasts. The shortfall in earnings was due to higher than expected marketing costs and lower sales volumes, implying downside risk to our 2011 estimates. We maintain our earnings forecasts pending an analyst briefing today. Valuations are still low with the stock trading at 11.1x 2012 PER. Our DCF-based TP implies 13x 2012 PER.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI inched down by 1.50 points to close at 1,498.24 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,498 and 1,515 will cap market gains, whilst the weaker support areas are located at 1,454 and 1,486.Due to the US markets’ fall last night; we will see some volatile trading activities in the local bourse today. Some heavy profit-taking and liquidation activities will persist to depress the markets’ rebound from its recent 1,423.47 low. We see a longer-term decline for the local and foreign indices.

Trading Idea is a Take Profit call on TENAGA.

Other Local News
MPHB: Confirms talks to dispose of Menara Multi-Purpose. Multi-Purpose Holdings Bhd (MPHB) said it is in talks with various parties to dispose off its non-core assets including Menara Multi-Purpose. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

MAHB: Revises charges for airlines, passengers. Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) would be implementing new international passenger service charges (PSC) as well as aircraft landing and parking charges at airports operated by the group on September 15. The government has given its approval and that it was in line with the Operating Agreement signed between the government and MAHB in February 2009. (Source: Business Times)

O&G: Gas Malaysia listing slated for 4Q. MMC Corp Bhd plans to list Gas Malaysia Sdn Bhd on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia by the fourth quarter of this year. The company has appointed Maybank Investment to advise on the initial public offer exercise. (Source: Business Times)

Bina Puri: Wins RM470.3m contract. Bina Puri Holdings Bhd, via its wholly-owned unit Bina Puri Construction Sdn Bhd, has been awarded a contract worth RM470.3m for the proposed development of a tourist recreational and commercial development at KK Times Square (Phase II) in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

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Maybank IB Views

Multi-Purpose Holdings RM2.77: Buy
Buy now or forever hold your piece

Great long term play. We initiate coverage on Multi-Purpose Holdings (MPHB) with a Buy call and RM3.60 TP (10% discount to RM4.00 SOP/sh). Its current share price reflects only Magnum Corporation's value without any value ascribed to its other businesses. We expect 14% 3-year forward earnings CAGR with 100% ownership of Magnum Corporation. A major re-rating catalyst is the gradual disposal of non-core assets which could enable it to pay up to 44 sen in special DPS and 20 sen in recurring net DPS, offering a whopping 7% net yield.

RESULTS REVIEW
AMMB Holdings RM6.48: Buy
Treasury gains support momentum

Maintain Buy. While 1QFY12 results were slightly above expectations our forecasts are lowered marginally. AMMB remains a Buy for: (i) its decent valuations, (ii) its ongoing portfolio rebalancing, (iii) ongoing investment in business line expansion under ANZ, and (iv) its position as a beneficiary of the Economic Transformation Programme. Our target price is trimmed to RM7.40 (-10sen) on an unchanged FY13 P/B target of 1.8x (ROE: 14.3%), which we believe is reflective of fundamentals.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI rose 16.07 points to close at 1,499.74 yesterday. Its resistance areas of 1,501 and 1,530 will cap market gains, whilst the obvious support areas are located at 1,454 and 1,499.Due to the US markets’ rebound last night; we will see some volatile trading activities in the local bourse today. Some heavy profit-taking and liquidation activities will emerge later to depress the markets’ rebound from its opening “gap up” move.

Trading idea is a Short-Term Buy call on BRDB

Other Local News
Sunway: No plans to postpone listing. The listing of Sunway Bhd, the merged entity of Sunway Holdings Bhd and Sunway City Bhd, will proceed as planned despite recent turbulence in the stock market. The shares of Sunway Bhd are scheduled to be floated on Bursa Malaysia on August 23 and expected to have a market capitalisation of over RM3.5b. (Source: Business Times)

AirAsia: New AirAsia Philippines vows to be 'substantially' cheaper. AirAsia launched a new affiliate in the Philippines yesterday, promising to undercut its rivals on regional and domestic routes. To minimise costs and avoid Manila's crowded terminals, AirAsia Philippines will fly out of a former US air base that had been turned into an industrial zone in Clark about 90 minutes' drive north of the country's capital. (Source: The Star)

MAHB: In talks with BA and Qantas on using KLIA. Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) is still in talks with British Airways and Qantas Airways on the possibility of both airlines mounting flights to KL International Airport (KLIA), a decade after these airlines suspended flights to KLIA owing to a lack of network connectivity here. Both airlines were considering the possibility of flying into KLIA, following Malaysia Airlines (MAS) joining the Oneworld alliance. (Source: The Star)

Parkson: Hires HSBC for Singapore listing. Parkson Holdings is spinning its retail operations in Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia in a separate listing in Singapore soon. HSBC has been hired to apply for the corporate exercise and the Singapore's listing. (Source: The Sun)

Dijaya: JV plans property development with GDV RM2.8b. Dijaya Corp Bhd’s joint venture with Iskandar Waterfront Sdn Bhd, Magical Heights Sdn Bhd (MHSB), plans to undertake property projects near Johor Baru with a gross development value (GDV) of RM2.8b. The projects would be built on two pieces of land which MHSB has proposed to acquire from Trident World Sdn Bhd for RM220m. Dijaya and Iskandar Waterfront Sdn Bhd each has a 50% stake in MHSB. (Source: Bursa Malaysia)

Iskandar: Gets RM95b pledges. Iskandar Malaysia attracted about RM95b in committed investments from January to June 2011. This was more than double the cumulative RM47b target for the five years up to 2010. From 2011 to 2015, Iskandar Malaysia is targeted to achieve RM73b in investments. (Source: The Star)

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Maybank IB Views

S P Setia RM3.85: Buy
"Setia Alam" in the making Shariah-compliant

Leading the new trend. SPSB is spearheading a new relatively untapped trend i.e. affordable housing via its latest sizeable land acquisition in Semenyih (south of KL CBD). The 1,011-acre land, which has been earmarked for affordable housing, would provide steady bread-and-butter sales and support SPSB’s long-term growth. The land could turn out to be another highly successful "Setia Alam" given SPSB's expertise and track record in township development. No change to our earnings forecasts and RM5.00 TP (10% premium to RM4.53 RNAV). Reiterate Buy.

Dialog Group RM2.52: Buy
Above par performance, optimism remains Shariah-compliant

Buy for earnings and dividends potential. Results were ahead of our expectation, on the back of a strong 4Q. We have raised our FY12-13 earnings forecasts by up to 28% (with further upside potential) and we remain optimistic on its long term growth prospect. Dialog remains among our preferred Buys in O&G with an unchanged RM3.35 target price (sum-of-part valuations). We continue to like its business model, focused management and steady dividend payments.

Technicals
The FBM KLCI tumbled 40.76-points and closed at 1,483.67 last Friday. The local market remained very weak due to the global equity indices’ malaise. The volatile global equity rout last week also adversely affected the local market. The weaker support areas for the FBM KLCI are located in the 1,423 to 1,480-zone. The next resistance levels of 1,483 and 1,597 will see heavy selling and liquidation activities.

Trading Idea is a Take Profit call on BURSA.

Other Local News
Aviation: Airlines to pay higher landing, parking charges. Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd is looking at a possible 30% hike in landing and a 64% increase in parking charges. MAHB is still holding discussions with airlines on whether the increase should be done on a staggered basis or at one go. In a dialogue with foreign airlines last Wednesday, MAHB said it had received the go ahead to raise airport tax for passengers as well as parking and landing charges for airlines. Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha has since confirmed the hike in passenger service charge. (Source: Business Times)

HLB: May sell MIMB Investment Bank licence. Hong Leong Bank Bhd (HLB) may sell MIMB Investment Bank Bhd's investment licence which it got following the acquisition of EON Capital's assets and liabilities. HLB has a choice of selling it to Hong Leong Investment Bank or other suitors who might be interested. (Source: The Star)

MISC: May bid for Maersk's LNG vessels. MISC Bhd may put in a bid for a fleet of eight liquefied natural gas (LNG) ships owned by AP Moller Maersk. The bids are understood to be due by end-August, with initial estimates valuing the fleet at USD1.3b (RM3.9b) to USD1.7b. (Source: The Edge Financial Daily)

MPHB: MCA in talks to buy Menara Multi-Purpose. The Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) is said to be keen on buying Multi-Purpose Holdings Bhd's (MPHB) Menara Multi-Purpose, located near Dang Wangi in Kuala Lumpur. The price tag could in the range of RM350m to RM400m. (Source: The Edge Financial Weekly)

Biotech: ECER gets RM2b boost. South Korea's CJ CheilJedang Corp and France's Arkema SA have announced a RM2b joint venture (JV) to build the world's first bio-methionine plant to produce animal feed in Malaysia. Both companies would commit the amount to be invested over a 10-year period. The plant together with Asia's first thiochemical platform would be located in Terengganu's Kertih Polymer Park in the East Coast Economic Region's (ECER) special economic zone. (Source: The Star)

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