KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit traded firmer against the US dollar this morning amid cautious investor positioning ahead of the United States (US) Federal Reserve’s (Fed) policy decision and improving risk appetite. At 8 am, the local currency strengthened to 3.9085/9315 against the greenback from Tuesday’s close of 3.9155/9200. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the ringgit has weathered the current shocks quite well as the US dollar is struggling to gain firmer ground despite heightened uncertainties. "As such, the ringgit could stage further appreciation today although it will remain in a narrow range trade,” he told Bernama. At the same time, the local currency traded higher against most ASEAN currencies.

Source: The Star March 18, 2026 02:29 UTC