In 2024, Malaysian initial public offerings (IPOs) have raised an impressive US$1.5 billion, marking the highest amount in 18 years. This figure represents over 50% of the total US$3 billion raised across Southeast Asia, despite the region experiencing a decline in the number of IPOs from 163 in 2023 to 122 this year [dc9fd2cd].
The Malaysian market recorded 46 IPOs in the first 10.5 months of 2024, with 99 Speed Mart Retail Holdings Bhd leading the pack with the largest IPO, valued at US$574 million. Overall, the market capitalization for IPOs in Malaysia reached US$6.6 billion [dc9fd2cd].
However, the IPO landscape has faced challenges due to high interest rates, currency fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions, which have affected investor confidence [dc9fd2cd]. Despite these hurdles, Deloitte's Wong Kar Choon anticipates a robust IPO market in 2025, predicting over 30 new listings. Notably, the ACE Market saw 34 listings, the highest since 2009, indicating a positive trend in smaller company listings [dc9fd2cd].
As Malaysia continues to lead the region in capital raising through IPOs, the performance of the financial market will be closely watched, especially in light of the ongoing economic uncertainties affecting investor sentiment across Southeast Asia [dc9fd2cd].