F. Yap Securities / 2TradeAsia

Eyes are set whether fund managers would make a market-on-close (MOC) support for quarter-end close, specifically for large-caps beaten by the recent rout.

Expect range-bound movements for a shortened trading week, ahead of the Lenten pause plus quarter-end portfolio closing.

Expect volatility, with sentiment headline-driven by conflicting messages on the situation in Iran, especially in relation to possible truce terms.

Having crossed above the 6,000 zone, gauges may continue to rise, backed by reports of Iran’s review of US proposal to end the conflict.

Volatility may continue, as market participants assess PBBM’s state of national energy emergency declaration via whole-of-government approach.

Sentiment might take its cue overseas, following Pres. Trump’s order to defer military strikes against power facilities in Iran on reports of ‘productive talks’ with Tehran.

Expect volatile trades, with eyes locked on headlines in the Middle East.

Iran’s latest attack on Qatar’s energy hub and KSA’s interception of missiles fired at Riyadh might cast its weight on sentiment, reinforced by the US Fed’s warning of higher near-term inflation as a result of the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The spotlight might turn anew on mining/oil-related shares, given the bullish trend for metal prices.

Possible gradual bargain hunting might set in, as participants take their cue from US equities’ advance.

Profit-taking may continue, as sentiment glides with headlines on the Middle East.

Recovery is likely to continue, having come off from its recent high, on supply situation assurances from fiscal and global authorities.

Market participants may get feelers for possible rebound, given Pres. Trump’s latest word that the conflict in Iran could end sooner.

Profit-taking may continue, as market participants assess fiscal guidance on near-, medium- & long-term contingencies to address volatile crude oil prices.

Expect volatility, with WTI crude advancing above $80/barrel.