0121 GMT - Malayan Banking's 2026 outlook should remain solid, TA Securities analyst Li Hsia Wong says in a note. Management guides for ROE above 11.8%, loan growth of 4%-5% and a net interest margin of 2.05%-2.10%, despite expected rate cuts in Singapore and Indonesia, she notes. Asset quality is forecast to remain stable, with net credit costs at 20 bps and a cost-to-income ratio below 49%, she says. Macro conditions across key markets should remain supportive, with Malaysia's economy likely expanding around 5%, healthy loan demand in Singapore and credit growth of 9%-11% in Indonesia, she adds. Wong thinks some cost pressures may emerge from mid-2026, aimed at boosting long-term efficiency and customers' experience. TA Securities raises Maybank's target price to MYR13.30 from MYR12.40, while maintaining a buy rating on the stock. (yingxian.wong@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

February 26, 2026 20:21 ET (01:21 GMT)

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