The Ringgit strengthened to 4.1115 against the US dollar yesterday. This was an improvement from the previous close of 4.1200. It was also the strongest level recorded since June 2021, when the ringgit traded at 4.1155.

The movement followed weaker economic data from the United States, which shaped market expectations ahead of the next interest rate decision by the US Federal Reserve.

Why the Ringgit Strengthened Without Local Announcements

The stronger ringgit does not reflect a sudden rise in Malaysia’s currency alone. Instead, the US dollar weakened after new data showed slower job growth in the United States. When the US dollar softens, other currencies often appear stronger in comparison. This is why the ringgit strengthened yesterday even though there were no major local policy changes or economic updates.

How This Affects Consumers

A stronger ringgit can influence daily spending in several ways. Imported goods priced in US dollars may become slightly cheaper if the stronger rate continues for a while. This includes items such as electronics and certain food products. Online shoppers who buy from international websites may also notice small savings when the currency rate is favourable.

For travellers, a stronger ringgit means the cost of changing money for trips to countries that use the US dollar, or currencies linked closely to it, may be lower than before. At the same time, the effect on everyday living costs may not be immediate because retailers usually adjust prices gradually.

Soft US Job Data Affected Market Expectations

IPPFA Sdn Bhd director of investment strategy and country economist Mohd Sedek Jantan said the latest US employment report revealed a drop in private sector hiring. The ADP report showed that private employment fell by 32,000 jobs in November, following a revised increase of 47,000 in October.

He explained that the weaker numbers increased expectations of a possible interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve. This outlook placed pressure on the US dollar and supported Asian currencies, including the ringgit.

Investors Watching More US Labour Updates

Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said investors were also monitoring two other US labour indicators that were due yesterday. These were the initial jobless claims data and the Challenger job cuts report.

Forecasts suggested 219,000 new jobless claims, slightly higher than the previous week’s 216,000. The Challenger report was expected to show updated layoff figures for November. In October, job cuts increased to 153,000 from 54,000 in September. He said these reports may continue to influence short-term currency movements.

Ringgit Weakened Against Major Currencies

Although the ringgit improved against the US dollar, it closed lower against several major global currencies yesterday. It ended at 5.4868 against the British pound, 4.8014 against the euro, and 2.6555 against the Japanese yen.

Ringgit Strengthened Against Regional Currencies

The ringgit performed better against several regional currencies. It strengthened to 3.1747 against the Singapore dollar and to 246.8 against the Indonesian rupiah. It also improved against the Philippine peso at 6.96 and against the Thai baht at 12.8304.

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