Ringgit Set for Narrow Range Amid US Rate Jitters

The Ringgit is expected to remain range-bound against the US dollar next week, trading between RM4.07 and RM4.09 as investors stay cautious over the direction of the United States interest rates.

Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said that investors will be monitoring the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) due to release on Aug 12, with a consensus forecast at 3.4 per cent.

Afzanizam also mentioned that investors will also keep an eye on Malaysia's second-quarter (Q2) 2026 gross domestic product (GDP) data due on Aug 14, with the expectation that Q2 2026 GDP growth is likely to match the advance estimate of 5.8 per cent.

Meanwhile, Quintex Intel global strategist Stephen Innes said that the ringgit is expected to trade between RM4.0825 and RM4.0975 against the US dollar.