Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 30 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks ended a smidgen higher in very light trading on Wednesday as a stronger-than-expected report on Midwest U.S. business
activity was offset by investors taking profits in some of the year's better performers.

Still, the Dow and the Nasdaq eked out fresh highs for the year. The Standard & Poor's benchmark index is up 25 percent for 2009, putting it on track for its best year since 2003.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 30 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended higher on Wednesday after seesaw trading, lifted by a government inventory report showing crude and refined products stocks fell last week.

Cold weather in the U.S. and turmoil in OPEC-members Iran and Nigeria also were supportive, even as the stronger dollar helped limit crude futures' rise. A drop in gasoline inventories helped lift RBOB gasoline futures.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, February crude rose 41 cents, or 0.52 percent, to settle at $79.28 a barrel, trading from $78.46 to $79.80, highest intraday price since $79.92 was struck on Nov. 23.

CBOT-CHICAGO, Dec 30 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Wednesday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January down 1-3/4 cents at $10.36-1/4 a bushel. Market receiving support from gains on crude oil market but prospects for big South American soybean crop in 2010 weigh.

CBOT-SOYOIL - January up 0.06 cent per lb at 39.49 cents per lb. Support from gains in crude oil.

FCPO-JAKARTA, Dec 30 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures ended up a fraction on Wednesday after gains in the crude oil market, but expectations of low exports for December and higher stocks capped the rise.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, Dec 24 (Reuters) - Southeast Asian stock markets ended mixed on Thursday in a listless holiday-trading session, with Singapore falling back from a more than one-year high and Thailand easing off from its highest in two months.

Singapore's benchmark Straits Times Index <.FTSTI> edged down 0.14 percent after a two-day rise, weighed down by casino operator Genting Singapore and shopping mall operator CapitaMalls , which each dropped almost 1 percent.

Malaysia's index <.KLSE> was up 0.3 percent, led by a 2.1 percent surge in industrial gas provider Petronas Gas and a 3.6 percent climb in pay-TV operator Astro All Asia Networks.

FCPO Daily: Missed the 2600 levels again

Market again failed to sustain at 2600 levels in a rather dull trading day. Consolidation phase is likely to continue in near term. to the upside, resistance is looking at at 2650. While, downside support is remain lies at 2575-2570 followed by 2500-2480.

Invitation to Market Outlook 2010 Workshop

Happy New Year!!

Dear All,



Please be informed that Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad will be closed on Friday, 1st January 2010 in conjunction with New Year:-



We wish all our Clients, Associates and Friends;



Happy New Year & Great Year Ahead.

Trader's Highlight

DJI- NEW YORK, Dec 29 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks edged lower in a low-volume session on Tuesday, breaking a six-day string of gains as investors found little reason to push stocks higher as the year's end approached.

Data showing a rise in consumer confidence was offset by a housing report pointing to more bumps in the road. The day's decline followed six days of gains. But the
benchmark Standard & Poor's 500 index is still up 25 percent for the year.

NYMEX- NEW YORK, Dec 29 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures were little changed in late trade on Tuesday, after an industry report showed a rise in U.S. crude stockpiles -- a report that followed a slightly higher settlement after a seesaw session.

Crude was supported by cold weather that lifted heating oil futures and by expectations that oil inventory reports would show that crude and distillate inventories fell last week.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, February crude rose 10 cents, or 0.13 percent, to settle at $78.87 a barrel, trading from $78.02 to $79.39, highest intraday price since $79.92 was struck on Nov. 23.

CBOT- CHICAGO, Dec 29 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex closing on Tuesday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January up 9 cents at at $10.38 per bushel; March up 9 at $10.47. Turned higher on a lack of commercial selling and strong export pace in addition to technical advances after falling to oversold levels last week. Market also extending Monday's 3 percent rally, which was tied to expected index fund purchases in early January.

CBOT-SOYOIL - January down 0.20 cent at 39.43 cents per lb; March down 0.20 at 39.85 cents. Profit-taking after the strong rally on Monday amd meal/oil spreading also weighs.

FCPO- JAKARTA, Dec 29 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures ended barely changed on Tuesday after earlier gains faded on profit taking and as a firmer U.S. dollar weighed on prices.

The benchmark March contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange closed down 2 ringgit, or 0.08 percent, at 2,590 ringgit ($755) per tonne.

REGIONAL EQUITIES- BANGKOK, Dec 29 (Reuters) - Thailand's stock market <.SETI> climbed to its highest in more than two months on Tuesday, leading gains in other major Southeast Asian stock markets as investors snapped up energy counters and commodity stocks.

Singapore hit its highest in nearly 17 months thanks to a more positive outlook for the U.S. economy in 2010 after holiday sales figures sent Wall Street to its highest close of 2009, but trading in Asia remained thin.

Malaysia's main index <.KLSE> advanced 0.2 percent to its highest in more than five weeks, with palm plantation company Sime Darby up 0.1 percent.

FKLI Daily: Strengthen further

Market continue to edge higher and violated the immediate support at 1275.5 had strengthen further the upward momentum. Thus, we maintain our view sideways to bias upside potential in near term with upside target is pegged at 1286 levels. To the downside, support is looking at 1265-1260 levels.

FCPO Daily: Shies away at 2600 levels again

Market shies away after hit the fresh high at 2632 levels. Hence, market may extend its consolidation phase in near term unless a convincing breakout from the overhead resistance at 2650 may provide more room to bias upside potential. To the downside, support is lies at 2575-2570 followed by 2500-2480.

Breaking News- RTRS-Indonesia sees higher 2010 CPO, rubber, cocoa output

JAKARTA, Dec 28 (Reuters) - Indonesia expects production of its plantation crops, including palm oil, rubber and cocoa, to be higher next year due to bigger areas under cultivation and as some crops enter peak production, a senior agriculture ministry official said on Monday.

Breaking News- RTRS-ANALYSIS-Brazil kicks off soy harvest amid currency woes

SAO PAULO, Dec 28 (Reuters) - Brazilian farmers have made an early start to gathering an expected bumper 2009/10 soybean crop whose development has been helped by above-average rains, but a strong local currency will limit their profits.
Brokers say the first cargoes of soy began to arrive in the last week in silos around the north of the country's No. 1 soy producing state, Mato Grosso.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 28 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks edged higher for a sixth straight day on Monday as data indicating improved consumer spending lifted shares of retailers, offsetting a drop in airline shares amid security worries.

Indexes hit fresh closing highs for 2009, but volume was light in what was expected to be a slow last week of trading for 2009, with investors attempting to hold on to solid profits for the year.

NYMEX- NEW YORK, Dec 28 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures rose on Monday on cold weather that sent heating oil futures higher and on momentum from continued optimism about economic recovery.

Concerns about unrest in Iran and the dispute between Russia and Ukraine over transit fees for crude oil going to Europe also were supportive, sources said.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, February crude rose 72 cents, or 0.92 percent to settle at $78.77 a barrel, trading from $77.76 to $79.12, highest intraday price since $79.92 was reached on Nov. 23.

CBOT-CHICAGO, Dec 28 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Monday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January up 29-1/2 cents at $10.29 per bushel. Support from fund buying, soaring corn market and strong export demand, with additional strength from a weak dollar and firm crude oil. Weekly export inspections data viewed bullish.

CBOT-SOYOIL - January up 1.17 cents at 39.63 cents per lb. Following soybeans, with weak dollar and firm crude oil supportive.

FCPO-JAKARTA, Dec 28 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures closed up 1.49 percent on Monday on gains in crude oil prices and expectations of weaker stocks, but a lower-than-expected export figure capped gains.

The benchmark March contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange closed up 38 ringgit at 2,592 ringgit ($756.23) per tonne, after going as high as 2,605 ringgit during the day.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, Dec 28 (Reuters) - Most Southeast Asian stock markets ended higher on Monday, with Singapore approaching a 17-month high, while Indonesia and Malaysia edged up after Christmas holidays, with energy shares leading the way.

Singapore's benchmark stock index <.FTSTI> rose 0.63 percent to its highest level since Aug. 7, 2008, led by a 6.0 percent gain in casino and resort operator Genting Singapore , while Thailand's main index <.SETI> climbed 0.45 percent.

Shares in Malaysia's SapuraCrest gained 4.8 percent after its unit, TLO, has been awarded a joint contract by 11 of Petronas Production Sharing Contractors to provide works and services for the transportation and installation of offshore oil and gas facilities.

FKLI Daily: Sideways to bias upside potential

Market rebounded to end at day high after the recent sideways move. Physiological support at 1250 levels has been defended well and market may move sideways bias to upside potential provided it manage to breakout from the immediate upside resistance at 1275.5 levels. The next upside resistance is pegged at 1286 levels.

FCPO Daily: Gaining ground

Market covered the upside gap left over at 2585-2598 has helped to gain ground further. However, immediate technical outlook remains mix and may consolidate further in near term. We continue to look for the immediate upside resistance at 2628 followed by 2650. To the downside, support is lies at 2500-2480.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 24 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks rallied in a brief pre-holiday session on Thursday, closing at 2009 highs, after data showing a drop in initial jobless claims and growth in durable goods orders suggested an economic recovery was
picking up steam.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 24 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures rose on Thursday, ending above $78 a barrel on optimism about economic recovery that pushed equities higher, a weaker dollar and momentum from the previous day's rise after inventory reports
showed oil stockpiles fell last week.

U.S. stocks rallied after data showing a drop in initial jobless claims and growth in durable goods orders suggested an economic recovery was picking up steam.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, February crude rose $1.38, or 1.8 percent, to settle at $78.05 a barrel, trading from $76.19 to $78.25.

CBOT-CHICAGO, Dec 24 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex closing trends on Thursday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January down 1-3/4 cents at $9.99-1/2 a bushel. Expectations for large supplies from South America pressure market in thin trade but market underpinned by good export data.

CBOT-SOYOIL - January up 0.38 cent at 38.46 cents per lb. Rallying crude oil market provides strength to soyoil.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures jumped 2.2 percent on Thursday, after three consecutive days of declines, as higher crude oil prices and a weaker U.S. dollar lifted the market.

The benchmark March contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled up 54 ringgit to 2,554 ringgit ($745) per tonne after going as high as 2,573 ringgit.

REGIONAL EQUITIES- BANGKOK, Dec 24 (Reuters) - Southeast Asian stock markets ended mixed on Thursday in a listless holiday-trading session, with Singapore falling back from a more than one-year high and Thailand easing off from its highest in two months.

Singapore's benchmark Straits Times Index <.FTSTI> edged down 0.14 percent after a two-day rise, weighed down by casino operator Genting Singapore and shopping mall operator CapitaMalls , which each dropped almost 1 percent.

Malaysia's index <.KLSE> was up 0.3 percent, led by a 2.1 percent surge in industrial gas provider Petronas Gas and a 3.6 percent climb in pay-TV operator Astro All Asia Networks.

NYMEX Crude Weekly: Sideways bias

Market continue to gain some ground to stay firm above USD70.00. Thus, market is likely to move sideways bias to trade in between USD82.00 to USD68.00 in near term. Violation of either one may give us more clearer direction.

CBOT Soyoil Weekly: Nothing much changes

Nothing much changes as immediate technical landscape remains in consolidation mode. Thus, we continue to look for the upside resistance at USc41.40 and downside support is lies at USc37.00-36.50.

FCPO Weekly: Looking good

Market looks has found its immediate base support at around 2480 levels after defended well for straight three weeks. We maintain our view to move sideways to bias upside potential in near term with upside resistance looking at 2628 followed by 2650. While, downside support is pegged at 2480 followed by 2428-2419 (left over gap on 29/11/2009).

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 1-China sees Dec soy imports 4.58 mln T, 2nd largest

BEIJING, Dec 23 (Reuters) - China's commerce ministry has
revised up its forecast for soy imports in December to 4.58
million tonnes, the second largest monthly import ever, from its
earlier estimate of 3.87 million tonnes.
The ministry's forecast was below expectations of the
country's top planning body, the National Development and Reform
Commission (NDRC), which sees record imports for December, or
larger than the 4.71 million tonnes in June, the highest ever
monthly import.

Trader's Highlight

DJI- NEW YORK, Dec 23 (Reuters) - The dollar halted a six-day rally and global stocks lost steam on Wednesday after an unexpected fall in U.S. new home sales curbed optimism about the economic recovery.

Oil prices jumped 3 percent, supporting energy shares, as data showed a much larger-than-expected decline in inventory of crude oil. The weaker dollar also boosted commodity prices in general, sending gold as much as 1 percent higher. A weaker dollar makes commodities cheaper for investors using other currencies.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> edged up 1.51 points, or 0.01 percent, to 10,466.44, while The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> rose 2.57 points, or 0.23 percent, to 1,120.59. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> ended up 16.97 points, or 0.75 percent, to 2,269.64.

NYMEX- NEW YORK, Dec 23 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended 3 percent higher on Wednesday, boosted by government inventory data showing crude stocks fell more than expected last week and the dollar's slump.

Crude oil reached $77 a barrel intraday for the first time since Dec. 4, when it hit $77.90. The contract has gained about $7 since Dec. 14 when it hit a nearly 2-1/2-month low, dropping intraday to $68.59.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, February crude rose $2.27, or 3.05 percent, to settle at $76.67 a barrel, trading from $74.25 to $77.00.

CBOT- SOYBEANS - January up 10-1/4 cents at $10.01-/4 a bushel. Market snaps four-day losing streak in rebound from decline to lowest level since Nov. 13. Better-than-expected soybean crush data adds strength as well as rallying crude oil prices.

CBOT-SOYOIL - January up 0.03 cent at 38.08 cents per lb. Spillover support from rally in crude oil market boosts prices while report of large soyoil stocks weighs on market.

FCPO- KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 23 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures dropped for a third day on Wednesday due to a firmer U.S. dollar and some position squaring towards the year end.

Expectations of a stock drawdown due to the end of the high production season limited losses. Traders expect stocks to fall about 13 percent to 1.68 million tonnes in December compared with the previous month.

The benchmark March contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled down 21 ringgit at 2,494 ringgit per ($725.8) tonne.

REGIONAL EQUITIES- BANGKOK, Dec 23 (Reuters) - Southeast Asian stock markets gained on Wednesday, with Noble Group leading Singapore to its highest in over a year while Thailand hovered around two month highs as investors bought big caps such as PTT and Siam Cement.

Singapore's index <.FTSTI> rose 0.6 percent to its highest since Aug. 11, 2008, with commodities firm Noble Group climbing 4.3 percent after Australia's Macarthur Coal made an offer to buy Noble unit Gloucester Coal in an all-share deal worth $591.3 million.

Malaysia's index <.KLSE> was nearly flat, edging up 0.01 percent, with palm plantation firms leading advancers. IOI Corp and Sime Darby each gained 0.6 percent.

FCPO Daily: 2500 levels defended

Market defended 2500 levels at the closing after tested the intra-day low at 2482. However, immediate daily technical outlook has losing its upward strength and looks may consolidate further in near term. For now, we are looking for the immediate downside support at 2480 followed by 2460-2445. To the upside, resistance is pegged at 2540-2550 followed by 2585-2598 (gap left over on 21/12/2009.

NYMEX Crude Daily: Strengthen further

Market surged with printed a long white candle had strengthen further the immediate technical landscape. Market looks may continue to move sideways to bias upside potential in near term with immediate upside target at USD78.00-79.00 followed by USD80.00. Downside support is pegged at USD72.00

Invitation to Market Outlook 2010

Breaking News-RTRS-Oil World sees rise in 2009/10 global soy crushing

HAMBURG, Dec 22 (Reuters) - Global soybean crushing from October 2009 to September 2010 are likely to rise to 203.4 million tonnes from 194.1 million tonnes in the previous season due to a decline in processing of other oilseeds, Oil World forecast.
"In the U.S. oilseed crushings started to recover in October under the lead of soybeans," the Hamburg-based oilseeds analyst said on Tuesday.
It forecasts U.S. October 2009/September 2010 soybean crushings will rise to 47.9 million tonnes from 44.8 million tonnes in 2008/09, while U.S. processing of other oilseeds will decline.

Trader's Highlight

DJI- NEW YORK, Dec 22 (Reuters) - The S&P 500 logged another 14-month high on Tuesday as stocks rallied on a surge in existing home sales, which indicated more stabilization in housing and boosted optimism about the economic recovery.

Housing stocks led the way up with the Dow Jones U.S. home construction index <.DJUSHB> up 3.9 percent following data that showed U.S. existing home sales rose in November at the fastest pace since February 2007.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> rose 50.79 points, or 0.49 percent, to end at 10,464.93. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> added 3.97 points, or 0.36 percent, to 1,118.02. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> gained 15.01 points, or 0.67 percent, to close at 2,252.67.

NYMEX- NEW YORK, Dec 22 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures edged up in post-settlement trading on Tuesday after an industry group reported crude inventories fell more than expected last week.

Crude futures seesawed and then settled higher ahead of weekly oil inventory reports expected to show that crude and distillate stocks fell last week. The American Petroleum Institute in a report released Tuesday afternoon, said crude inventories fell 3.7 million barrels last week, despite imports rising 127,000 barrels per
day to 8.98 million bpd.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, front-month February crude rose 68 cents, or 0.92 percent, to settle at $74.40 a barrel, trading from $72.72 to $74.91. Crude ended Post-settlement Globex electronic trading ended up 74 cents at $74.46, but with the trading range unchanged.

CBOT- SOYBEANS - January down 10 cents at $9.91 a bushel. Prices drop for fourth straight day, closing at lowest level since Nov. 13 on technical selling, along with disappointing export inspections, a firmer dollar and favorable South American crop weather.

CBOT- SOYOIL - January down 0.23 cent at 38.05 cents per lb. Following soybeans lower.

FCPO- KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 22 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures fell for a second day on Tuesday on a firmer U.S. dollar, but the decline was slower compared to the day before due to expectations of a stock drawdown. The benchmark March contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange ended 40 ringgit lower at 2,515 ringgit ($732.4) in heavy trading.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, Dec 22 (Reuters) - Most Southeast Asian stock markets gained on Tuesday as buying interests in big caps spanned across the region, helping Singapore end a three-day losing streak and pushing the Thai index to its highest in two months.

Malaysia's index <.KLSE> also reversed its three-day falls, closing up 0.4 percent, with gaming group Genting and YTL Corp rising over 1 percent each. Singapore's index <.FTSTI> rose 1.3 percent, ending weak sessions over the past three days, with top telecoms firm Singapore Telecommunication gaining 2 percent and top lender DBS Group Holdings up 1.8 percent.

FCPO Daily: Searching for a base support

Two day of losing streak had slowing down the market upside move.Market looks may continue to consolidate searching for a base support. For now, we are looking for the immediate downside support at 2500-2480 followed by 2460-2445. To the upside, resistance is pegged at 2585-2598 (gap left over on 21/12/2009) followed by 2628.

Breaking News-RTRS-Malaysia eyes Africa for oil palm expansion-report

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 21 (Reuters) - Malaysia's state plantation agency will focus on growing oil palms in West Africa after scrapping plans to develop estates in Brazil last month, the Business Times reported on Monday.
The Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA), which owns 800,000 hectares of plantation land in Malaysia, will expand mostly in Cameroon and Liberia, its chairman Mohamad Yusof Noor was quoted as saying by the business daily.

Breaking News-RTRS-Indonesia Bakrie Sumatera: 2010 palm oil output at 430,000 T

JAKARTA, Dec 21 (Reuters) - Indonesian plantation firm PT Bakrie Sumatera Plantations Tbk expects palm oil output of around 430,000 tonnes in 2010, President Director Ambono Janurianto said on Monday.
The forecast is slightly higher than the firm's earlier forecast output of 420,000 tonnes for next year.

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 1-Indonesia palm oil export tax at 3 pct in Jan -source

JAKARTA, Dec 21 (Reuters) - Indonesia will increase its palm oil export tax to 3 percent in January after holding it at zero for the past five months, said an industry source said on Monday.
A hike in the export tax was widely expected following a rise in prices. The 3 percent export tax is based on a reference price of $769.17 CIF Rotterdam, the source said.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 21 (Reuters) - Optimism about the economic recovery on Monday encouraged investors to buy stocks and dump U.S. Treasuries, while gold prices fell as investors expected the dollar to remain firm in the beginning of the new year.

Speculation that the Federal Reserve may raise interest rates sooner than forecast drove the dollar to a six-week high against the yen and kept it near its strongest level against the euro in three months.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> ended up 85.25 points, or 0.83 percent, at 10,414.14, while the Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> gained 11.58 points, or 1.05 percent, to 1,114.05. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> was up 25.97 points, or 1.17 percent, at 2,237.66.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 21 (Reuters) - U.S. crude futures ended lower on Monday, pressured by the stronger dollar as the front-month January crude contract moved toward expiration.

The market also eyed indications that OPEC will leave production targets unchanged at its meeting on Tuesday.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, expiring January crude fell 89 cents, or 1.21 percent, to settle at $72.47 a barrel, trading from $71.99 to $74.32.

NYMEX February crude fell 70 cents, or 0.94 percent, to settle at $73.72 a barrel, trading from $73.17 to $75.24.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January down 11 cents at $10.01 a bushel. Market closes at lowest level since Nov. 13 on pressure from drop in crude oil prices. Good growing weather in South America, firm dollar also contribute to weakness.

CBOT-SOYOIL - January down 0.05 cent at 38.28 cents per lb.Turned lower as crude oil fell.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 21 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures dropped 2.5 percent on Monday, retreating from last week's six-and-a-half month highs on Friday's drop in U.S. soyoil prices as well as slowing exports.

The benchmark March contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled down 65 ringgit at 2,555 ringgit ($744.5) per tonne, its sharpest one-day drop since Oct. 2.The contract on Friday hit 2,628 ringgit, a level unseen since June. 2.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, Dec 21 (Reuters) - Indonesia's stock index fell more
than 3 percent to its lowest in almost three weeks on Monday, leading declines in other major regional markets, with big caps such as Telkom Indonesia and Astra International leading the way.

Malaysia <.KLSE>, which was also closed on Friday, fell almost 1 percent on Monday to its lowest since Nov. 30, as palm plantation firms fell in line with crude palm oil futures, which dropped 2.2 percent on the day. [nSGE5BK03B] Among losers, IOI Corp slid 2.5 percent, Sime Darby was off 1.1 percent, Wilmar International fell 0.5 percent and Astra Agro lost 3.8 percent.

Singapore's index <.FTSTI> fell 0.6 percent, with top lender DBS Group Holdings off 1.6 percent, top telecoms firm Singapore Telecommunications dropping 2.3 percent and United Overseas Bank 0.7 percent lower.

CBOT Soyoil Daily: Continue to lose ground

Market continue to lose ground after violated the underline support at Usc39.00. Overall technical landscape remains weak. Currently, we are looking for the immediate downside support at Usc38.50-38.00 followed by Usc37.50. To the upside, resistance is pegged at Usc39.00-39.50.

NYMEX Crude Daily: Defended well

Market temporary has found some support around USD68 and rebounded to stay firm above USD70. However, more strength is needed to maintain the upside move. To the upside, we are looking at USD75-76 followed by USD78.00. Downside support is pegged at USD68.50.

FCPO Daily: Taking a break

Market took a little breathe after hit the recent high at 2628. Nevertheless, immediate technical outlook remains positive. As for now, we are looking for the immediate upside resistance at 2585-2598 (gap left over on 21/12/2009)followed by 2628 levels. While, downside support is lies at 2546-2539 (gap left over on 16/12/2009) followed by 2500-2480 levels.

Breaking News-PREVIEW-Indonesia to hike Jan palm oil export tax to 3 pct

JAKARTA, Dec 18 (Reuters) - Indonesia, the world's top crude palm oil (CPO) producer, may hike the export tax to 3 percent in January from zero now because of higher prices, but the move is unlikely to hit exports given tight global supply.
Trade ministry and industry officials meet every month to decide the tax rate for the following month, using the average spot CPO prices in Rotterdam in the preceding 30 days as a reference price. Their next meeting will take place next week.
"As palm oil prices are predicted to continue to rise to 3,000 ringgit ($873.36) per tonne next year, we expect the export tax to rise further due to the progressive tax system," Susanto Yang, head of the marketing division at the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI), told Reuters.
The existing CPO export tax system, aimed at safeguarding domestic supply and reducing volatility in cooking oil prices, allows the government to impose tax rates from 1.5 percent to 25 percent.

Breaking News-RTRS-Informa sees more US corn acres in 2010, less soy

CHICAGO, Dec 18 (Reuters) - Analytical firm Informa Economics expects an 3.7 percent increase in U.S. corn plantings in 2010, while soybean seedings should drop by 0.7 percent, trade sources said Friday.
Informa estimated 2010 U.S. corn acreage at 89.504 million and soybeans at 76.993 million, traders said.
In 2009, U.S. farmers planted 86.4 million acres of corn and 77.5 million acres of soybeans, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has said.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 18 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks rose on Friday in choppy trade as quarterly results from Oracle and Research In Motion lifted the Nasdaq more than 1 percent, but the U.S. dollar's climb curbed gains in both the Dow and the S&P 500.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> added 20.63 points, or 0.20 percent, to 10,328.89. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> gained 6.39 points, or 0.58 percent, to 1,102.47. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> climbed 31.64 points, or 1.45 percent, to 2,211.69.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 18 (Reuters) - U.S. crude futures rose nearly 1 percent in choppy pre-holiday trade on Friday, on short covering ahead of the January contract expiration on Monday.

A dispute between Iran and Iraq and cold weather across the U.S. and Europe helped support prices.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange January crude rose 71 cents, or 0.98 percent, to settle at $73.36, trading from $72.55 to $74.69.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January down 10 cents per bushel at $10.12. Firm dollar lends pressure, with additional weight from good soy crop weather in South America.

CBOT-SOYOIL - January down 0.31 cent per lb at 38.33 cents per lb. Spillover pressure from lower soy and firm dollar; fading gains in crude oil add pressure.

FCPO-JAKARTA, Dec 17 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures jumped 1.3 percent on Thursday to the highest closing level in six and a half months as investors continued to bet on good demand and prospects of tight supply, traders said.

The benchmark March contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled up 34 ringgit at 2,620 ringgit ($762.74) per tonne, the highest closing level since June 1.

Overall volume shot up to 22,564 lots of 25 tonnes each, more than double the usual 10,000 lots.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, Dec 18 (Reuters) - Southeast Asian stock markets
mostly edged down on Friday in thin turnover, with concerns about the earnings outlook at top U.S. financial firms fuelling selling in banks such as Singapore's DBS Group and Thailand's Bangkok Bank.

Singapore's benchmark stock index <.FTSTI> fell 0.38 percent, after rising to its highest in more than a year the previous day, and Thailand's main index <.SETI> ended flat, after dropping as much as 0.64 percent.

The Philippine stock market <.PSI> closed down 1.02 percent, having hit a one-week low in early trade, but Vietnam <.VNI> rose 1.95 percent, a day after falling to a near-five-month low. Stock markets in Malaysia <.KLSE> and Indonesia <.JKSE> were
closed for holidays.

CBOT soyoil Weekly: Consolidation

Market maintain in consolidation mode. Thus, we continue to look of the upside resistance at USc41.40 and downside support is lies at USc37.50-36.50.

NYMEX Crude Weekly: Market momentum remains weak

Market momentum remains weak despite prices close at above the physiological support at USD70.00. Thus, market likely to extend its sideways to lower in near term. As for now, we continue to look for the upside resistance at USD82.00. While, underline support remains pegged at USD65.00.

FCPO Weekly: More room to bias upside potential

Market violated the recent high at 2606 levels and close off the weekly high had beautified the immediate technical outlook to bias upside potential. Hence, we maintain our view to move higher in near term with upside resistance looking at 2650 followed by 2800 levels. While, downside support remains at 2450-2420 followed by 2428-2419 (left over gap on 29/11/2009).

FKLI Weekly: Remains in sideways

Nothing much changes on the immediate weekly technical landscape as market still stuck in between 1250 to 1286 levels. Violation of either way may give us a clearer direction.

Trader's Highlights

DJI - NEW YORK, Dec 16 - U.S stocks finished flat to slightly higher on Wednesday after the Federal Reserve reiterated its intention to keep interest rates low for the foreseeable future to ensure a sustainable economic recovery.

Wall Street trimmed gains after the Fed voted unanimously to keep benchmark borrowing costs in a range of zero to 0.25 percent, which represents historic lows.

The Dow Jones industrial average slipped 10.88 points, or 0.10 percent, to end at 10,441.12. But the Standard & Poor's 500 Index gained 1.25 points, or 0.11 percent,
to 1,109.18. The Nasdaq Composite Index added 5.86 points, or 0.27 percent, to 2,206.91.

NYMEX - NEW YORK, Dec 16 - U.S. crude futures rose sharply on Wednesday after the government's oil inventory report showed crude oil and distillate supplies fell much more than expected last week.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, January crude rose $1.97, or 2.79 percent, to settle at $72.66 a barrel, trading from $70.59 to $73.55.

CBOT - SOYBEANS - January up 4-1/2 cents at $10.59-1/2 a bushel.
Support from news China bought more U.S. soy, gains in crude oil and reluctance to be short soy ahead of expected fund buying early in 2010. But ended below day's high as market gave up most of its early gains amid technical selling after prices failed to top Tuesday's high.

CBOT - SOYOIL - January up 0.69 cent at 40.33 cents per lb.
Rally in crude oil futures lends support.

FCPO - JAKARTA, Dec 16 - Malaysian crude palm oil futures surged 2.3 percent to their highest closing level in six and a half months on Wednesday supported by a crude oil price rebound and fresh buying in the physical market, traders said.

"After crude oil moved above $71, people get excited again. We also heard that a big buyer has been chasing olein again since the morning," said a trader at a Kuala Lumpur-based brokerage firm.

The benchmark March contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled up 57 ringgit to 2,587 ringgit ($755.77) per tonne, the highest finishing since June 2.

REGIONAL EQUITIES - BANGKOK, Dec 16 - Stock markets in Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand gained on Wednesday as investors piled into big caps late in the session, with Singapore's Genting, Thailand's CP Foods and Indonesia's Telekomunikasi among risers.

Most Southeast Asian stock markets were range-bound earlier as markets elsewhere in Asia slid on profit-taking in thin trading volume.

Singapore's index rose 0.5 percent to 2,813.93, with gaming group Genting Singapore climbing 5.5 percent, DBS Group Holdings adding 1 percent and Singapore Airlines jumping 3.5 percent.

Thailand's key stock index was up 0.9 percent, earlier climbing to its highest since Nov. 12, led by a 2.6 percent gain in energy firm PTT Exploration and Production and a 5.6 percent rise in chicken firm CP Foods.

Malaysia's index dipped 0.14 percent after a combined gain of over 1 percent in the previous four sessions. Trade in Kuala Lumpur was thin ahead of a holiday on Friday, dealers said.

Trader's Highlights

DJI - NEW YORK, Dec 15 - Higher-than-expected November U.S. inflation fueled demand for the dollar on Tuesday. but weighed on stocks and bonds as investors feared the Federal Reserve may need to raise rates faster than anticipated.

Oil futures prices rose almost 2 percent to settle above $70 a barrel following nine sessions of losses, offering some support to energy stocks. But Wall Street extended losses in late afternoon after bellwether General Electric Co issued a flat outlook for 2010.

Fears that the Fed could end its two-day meeting on Wednesday with a more hawkish view on interest rates surfaced after data showed the U.S. Producer Price Index jumped a surprising 1.8 percent last month, much more than the 0.8 percent forecast by economists.

The Dow Jones industrial average slid 49.05 points, or 0.47 percent, to close at 10,452.00, while the Standard & Poor's 500 Index declined 6.18 points, or 0.55 percent, to finish at 1,107.93. The Nasdaq Composite Index fell 11.05 points, or 0.50 percent, to end at 2,201.05.


NYMEX - NEW YORK, Dec 15 - U.S. crude oil futures added to gains after settlement on Tuesday, even though industry data showing a rise in crude oil stockpiles when the market had expected a decline.

Crude futures settled higher on Tuesday, ending a string of nine straight losing sessions as the market awaited weekly oil inventory reports expected to show crude stockpiles fell last week.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, January crude rose $1.18, or 1.7 percent, to settle at $70.69 a barrel, trading from $69.31 to $71.15. It ended Globex electronic
trading after the API report up $1.31 at $70.82 a barrel.

CBOT - SOYBEANS - January unchanged at $10.55 a bushel.
Market gave up gains late following rally to two-week high as traders locked in profits. Good crop weather in South America weighed on prices in thin trade.

CBOT - SOYOIL - January up 0.01 cent at 39.64 cents per lb.
Firm crude oil supports prices but market closes off highs as soybeans give up gains.

FCPO - JAKARTA, Dec 15 - Malaysian crude palm oil futures edged up 0.5 percent on Tuesday on speculative buying but volume was thin as most investors were reluctant to take positions given a lack of fresh leads ahead of year-end holidays, traders said.

The benchmark February contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled up 12 ringgit at 2,525 ringgit ($740.04). Overall volume was 8,251 lots of 25 tonnes each, less than the usual 10,000 lots.

REGIONAL EQUITIES - BANGKOK, Dec 15 - Southeast Asian stocks ended mostly flat on Tuesday in thin trading with Malaysia edging to a one-week high on gains in financials such as Maybank, while foreign-led selling buffetted Thailand.

Caution ruled ahead of a policy-setting meeting of the U.S. Federal Reserve beginning later on Tuesday that could provide guidance on the timing of an expected rate hike and the outlook for the dollar.

Malaysia's index rose 0.4 percent to 1,270.81, its highest since Dec. 7, with Malayan Banking up 1.9 percent, financial CIMB Group 0.8 percent higher and shipper MISC climbing 1.3 percent.

Thailand ended flat after hitting its highest since Nov. 11 earlier in the day.
Elsewhere, Singapore pared early gains to end nearly flat, with top developer CapitaLand falling 1.4 percent and top lender DBS Group Holdings shedding 0.14 percent.

Breaking News-RTRS-Malaysia, Bangladesh mull bilateral palm oil pact

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 14 (Reuters) - Bangladesh wants to buy palm oil from Malaysia via its state trading arm to ensure sufficient supply and price stability for the edible oil, said a Malaysian minister.
"Bangladesh is interested to have a government-to-government buying arrangement to ensure there is steady supply and price of palm oil is maintained in the local market," Malaysia's Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Bernad Dompok was quoted by state news agency Bernama as saying.
Such an arrangement will boost Malaysia's palm oil export given Bangladesh's low per capita consumption of palm oil, said Dompok.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 14 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks closed at 14-month highs on Monday as Abu Dhabi's $10 billion in aid to help Dubai avoid default eased concerns and a takeover deal by Exxon Mobil Corp raised optimism about mergers and acquisitions activity.

Citigroup Inc's plan to repay the U.S. government about $20 billion in bailout funds also helped buttress the buoyant mood a week after Bank of America fully repaid its $45 billion government loan.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> gained 29.55 points, or 0.28 percent, to end at 10,501.05. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> rose 7.70 points, or 0.70 percent, to 1,114.11. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> climbed 21.79 points, or 0.99 percent, to close at 2,212.10.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 14 (Reuters) - U.S. crude futures slipped on Monday, settling lower for a ninth consecutive session after seesawing as concerns about healthy inventories and tepid demand offset a weak dollar and advancing equities.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, January crude fell 36 cents, or 0.52 percent, to settle at $69.51 a barrel, lowest settlement since crude ended at $66.71 on Sept. 29.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January up 20 cents at $10.55 per bushel. Surged into buy stops on weakening dollar and expectations of index fund buying in agricultural commodities in the new year. Bullish NOPA crush number adds support.

National Oilseed Processor Association reports U.S. November soybean crush at record large 160.259 million bushels, above range of trade estimates.

CBOT-SOYOIL - December expired up 0.18 cent at 39.40 cents per lb, January up 0.06 at 39.63 cents. Buoyed by rally in soybeans, which overshadows news China may release soybeans from reserves.

NOPA reports U.S. November soyoil stocks at 2.411 billion lbs, up from 2.286 billion in October.

FCPO-JAKARTA, Dec 14 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures fell 0.7 percent on Monday, after short-covering narrowed a loss of as much as 2 percent due to a drop in crude oil prices and talk of lower exports for the first half of December, traders said.

The benchmark February contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled down 17 ringgit at 2,513 ringgit ($737.60), after going as low as 2,488 ringgit in early trade. Overall volume was 11,673 lots of 25 tonnes each.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, Dec 14 (Reuters) - Thailand's benchmark stock index
<.SETI> ended at a two-week closing high on Monday, helped by strong buying interest from local institutions, while Malaysia's index <.KLSE> rose to its highest in nearly a week.

Most other Southeast Asian stocks were also in positive terrain for much of the day but volume fell. Singapore <.FTSTI> ended flat after early gains, while the Philippines <.PSI> rose for a third day and Vietnam <.VNI> rallied after a four-day loss.

In Kuala Lumpur, the main index <.KLSE> was up 0.4 percent at 1,265.45, its highest since Dec. 8, with financial CIMB Group and power utility Tenaga each rising about 1.3 percent.

FCPO Daily: Consolidation

Market was entering into consolidation zone as prices moving in sideways bias. Thus, we continue to look for the upside resistance at 2535-2540 followed by 2590-2606. Downside support is lies at 2480-2460 followed by 2428-2419 (gap left over on 23/11/2009).

FKLI Daily: Waiting for a significant breakout

Market defended well at the physiological support 1250 levels. A breakout of either the immediate upside resistance at 1275.5 or the downside support at 1250 may provide us a clearer direction in near term.

BMD Market Holiday

Dear All,



Please be informed that Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad will be closed on the following days in conjunction with Awal Muharram, Christmas, and New Year:-



1. Friday, 18 December 2009 – Awal Muharram

2. Friday, 25 December 2009 – Christmas

3. Friday, 1 January 2010 – New Year



We wish all our Clients, Associates and Friends;



Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.



Great Year Ahead.

BURSA MALAYSIA HOLIDAY 2010

Breaking News-RTRS-RPT-Unilever cuts palm oil supplier ties after report

LONDON, Dec 11 (Reuters) - Consumer goods company Unilever , the world's largest user of palm oil, has suspended purchases of edible oil from Indonesian group Sinar Mas on concerns over rain forest destruction.
Unilever, which uses palm oil in such products as Dove soap, Ben & Jerry ice cream, and margarines like Stork, cancelled its annual 20 million pound ($32.6 million) contract with Sinar Mas after a critical report by environmental group Greenpeace.
Anglo-Dutch Unilever said on Friday it was suspending purchases from PT SMART , which is part of Sinar Mas, until the Indonesian group could give proof that none of its plantations was contributing to the destruction of rain forests.

Breaking News-RTRS-Europe oils-Palm prices seen steady before boost in 2010

AMSTERDAM, Dec 11 (Reuters) - Palm oil's upward potential may be limited in the near-term but rising demand, strength in other edible oil markets and increased speculation are seen driving prices up in early 2010, analysts said on Friday.
Prices of the tropical oil, used in products ranging from margarine to lipstick, have risen in recent months, boosted by a recovery in mineral oil prices, gains in soy oil prices and firm demand due partly to its relative discount to other oils.
Malaysian palm oil futures prices hit a six month high last week, but have pulled back in recent days on profit taking and broad weakness in commodities, with the market seen range-bound until the end of the year, traders said.
In the longer-term, prices could appreciate due to seasonally declining production and comparatively strong world demand, market experts said.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 11 (Reuters) - The Dow and S&P 500 closed up for a third straight session on Friday after several solid consumer-related reports reinforced investors' confidence in a steady recovery by the economy.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> was up 65.67 points, or 0.63 percent, at 10,471.50. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> was up 4.06 points, or 0.37 percent, at 1,106.41. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> was down 0.55 point, or 0.03 percent, at 2,190.31.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 11 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended below $70 a barrel on Friday, hitting a two-month low and extending the market slump for the eighth straight day as a stronger dollar spurred selling.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, January crude settled down 67 cents, or 0.95 percent, at $69.87 a barrel, the lowest since the $69.57 close on Oct. 7. It traded from $69.46, lowest since the Oct. 8 intraday low of $69.17, to $71.20.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January up 8 cents at $10.35 per bushel. Spillover support from rally in corn, short-covering and supported by brisk exports of U.S. soy, especially to China.

CBOT-SOYOIL - December up 0.13 cent at 39.22 cents per lb; most-active January up 0.12 at 39.57.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 11 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures rose 0.4 percent on Friday, supported by higher soyoil and an unexpected fall in stocks.

The benchmark February contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange ended up 9 ringgit to 2,530 ringgit ($744.6).

REGIONAL Equity-BANGKOK, Dec 11 (Reuters) - Most Southeast Asian stock markets gained on Friday, with Thai stocks climbing to a one-week high on mainly local buying in recently depressed big caps such as PTT Exploration and Production and Advanced Info Service.

In Kuala Lumpur, the main index <.KLSE> inched up 0.01 percent, with Malayan Banking up 0.45 percent and Petronas Gas down 1 percent.

Singapore's index <.FTSTI> gained 0.7 percent, reversing a fall of nearly 1 percent in the previous two sessions, with the largest telecoms firm, Singapore Telecommunications , and top lender DBS Group each rising 1.3 percent.

NYMEX Crude Weekly: Weaken further

Immediate technical landscape weaken further following market violated the physiological support at USD70.00. Thus, market likely to extend its sideways to lower in near term. As for now, we are looking for the upside resistance at USD82.00. While, underline support will be adjusted to USD65.00.

CBOT Soyoil Weekly: Enter into consolidation

Market looks enter into consolidation zone after hitting the high at Usc41.40.Thus, market may move sideways in near term with upside resistance is pegged at USc41.40. While,immediate downside support is lies at USc39.00 followed by 37.50

FCPO Weekly: Took a breathe

Market took a breathe after hitting high at 2606 levels. However, immediate technical landscape maintain in positive posture. Thus, market likely to continue to move higher in near term with upside resistance is now looking at 2650 followed by 2800 levels. While, downside support remains at 2428-2419 (left over gap on 29/11/2009).

FKLI Weekly: Tiredness

Market is showing tiredness mode despite prices struggle to survive at above 1250 physiological support levels. Thus, violation of it may provide more room to bias downside potential which next support is looking at 1230 followed by 1200 levels. While to the upside, resistance at 1286 followed by 1300.

Breaking News-RTRS-EU biodiesel anger as Argentine imports replace US

HAMBURG, Dec 10 (Reuters) - Europe's biodiesel industry is struggling against large cheap imports from Argentina and the green fuel industry is considering a new trade complaint, industry groups said on Thursday.
Europe's association of biodiesel producers, the European Biodiesel Board, is considering taking action against Argentine biodiesel exports which it says can be sold at distorted price levels because of Argentine's export tax incentives.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 10 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks gained on Thursday as signs of improving trends in the job market and a decline in the U.S. October trade deficit reassured investors the economy was on a steady growth path.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> was up 68.78 points, or 0.67 percent, at 10,405.83. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> ended up 6.40 points, or 0.58 percent, at 1,102.35. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> closed up 7.13 points, or 0.33 percent, at 2,190.86.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 10 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures fell on Thursday for a seventh day in a row, extending two-month lows below $70 before ending above that level in see-saw trading, as ample fuel supplies stoked worries about demand.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, January crude settled down 13 cents, or 0.18 percent, at $70.54 a barrel, after moving from $69.81, lowest since the $69.17 low on Oct. 8, to $71.39.

In the latest losing streak, front-month NYMEX crude fell $7.83, or 10 percent, the biggest loss for front-month crude since the $11.65, or 16.3 pct loss in a six-day losing streak from June 30, to July 9.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January down 1-1/2 cents at $10.27 per bushel. Weighed down by USDA's December supply/demand report that showed U.S. soy ending stocks above expectations.

USDA projected 2009/10 U.S. ending stocks of soy at 255 million bushels, above average trade estimate for 233 million.

CBOT-SOYOIL - December up 0.19 cent at 39.09 cents per lb; January up 0.18 at 39.45 cents. Rebounding; gaining against soymeal on oil/meal spreads.

FCPO-JAKARTA, Dec 10 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures edged lower on Thursday but recouped most of the day's fall after an industry regulator released better-than-expected stocks data, traders said.

The benchmark February contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled down 5 ringgit, or 0.2 percent at 2,521 ringgit ($742.56) a tonne, coming off the day's low of 2,489 ringgit. Overall volume was 20,308 lots of 25 tonnes each.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 10 (Reuters) - Stock markets in Malaysia,
Indonesia and the Philippines posted slight gains on Thursday after Wall Street rebounded overnight, but Vietnam fell to more than four-month lows as investors continued to fret about the strength of the global recovery.

Shares in Singapore also fell, though trading was subdued in much of the region as investors wound down their activities ahead of the year-end holidays. Thai markets were closed for a holiday.

Singapore's index <.FTSTI> lost 0.6 percent, with Keppel Corp sliding 1.1 percent and telecoms firm Singapore Telecom losing 0.7 percent.

Malaysia's main share index <.KLSE> rose 0.3 percent, with the country's No.2 lender CIMB also up 0.3 percent and telecoms firm Maxis 0.2 percent higher.

FCPO Daily: Sideways

Immediate technical outlook remains cloudy as 2520-2500 levels was tested on intra-day basis but closing manage to climb back at 2521 levels. Thus, consolidation mode likely to extend in near term. We maintain the upside resistance at 2606 followed by 2650 levels. While, downside support is adjusted to 2480-2450 followed by 2428-2419 (gap left over on 23/11/2009).

Breaking News-RTRS-INTERVIEW-EU demand scant for non-rain forest palm oil

HAMBURG, Dec 9 (Reuters) - Europe's food industry is proving slow to buy palm oil certified under a new scheme as produced without destroying tropical rain forests, the head of Germany's edible oil industry association OVID said on Wednesday.
Some 1.2 million tonnes of palm oil certified under the new programme Round Table for Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) had been produced since the scheme got underway in autumn 2008 but only 320,000 tonnes had been sold, said OVID chief executive Petra Sprick.
The rest, largely produced in Malaysia and Indonesia, is in storage tanks awaiting buyers.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 9 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks ended higher on Wednesday as the U.S. dollar fell and investors' appetite for risk returned, lifting shares of financial, technology and natural resource companies.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> ended up 51.08 points, or 0.50 percent, to 10,337.05. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> rose 3.95 points, or 0.36 percent, to 1,095.89. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> gained 10.74 points, or 0.49 percent, to 2,183.73.

Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said the government would extend its $700 billion financial bailout fund to October 2010 for further efforts to fight home foreclosures and to ease credit for small businesses in the hopes of spurring job
growth.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 9 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended at their lowest levels in two months on Wednesday, pressured by a sell-off in product futures after government data showed big increases in distillate and gasoline inventories last week.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, January crude settled down $1.95, or 2.69 percent, at $70.67 a barrel, trading from $70.13 to $73.87. The day's low is the lowest since prices hit $69.17 on Oct. 8. The day's settlement is the lowest since Oct. 7's $69.57. NYMEX January crude has fallen $7.70, or 9.8 percent, from the $78.37 close on Dec.1.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January down 15-1/2 cents at $10.28-1/2 per bushel. Pressure from falling crude oil and gold and from the dollar, which remained weak but was moving above the day's lows.

CBOT-SOYOIL - December down 1.21 cents at 38.90 cents per lb; January down 1.22 at 39.27 cents. Falling crude oil weighs in addition to talk Argentina was lowering its export tax on soyoil.

FCPO-JAKARTA, Dec 9 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures tumbled on Wednesday as investors pocketed profits from the recent rally ahead of the release of end-November stocks data, traders said.

Industry regulator Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) is due to release end-November stocks data on Thursday.

The benchmark February contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled down 35 ringgit, or 1.4 percent, at 2,526 ringgit ($743.82) a tonne. Overall volume at 20,978 lots of 25 tonnes each was double the usual 10,000 lots.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, Dec 9 (Reuters) - Major Southeast Asian stock markets hit their lowest level in a week on Wednesday, with Thailand leading the decline ahead of a holiday as investors unloaded heavyweights such as Siam Commercial Bank and Banpu.

Worries about the strength of the global recovery weighed on market sentiment across Asia, triggering broad selling in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia.

Singapore's index <.FTSTI> eased 0.3 percent, after falling to its lowest since Dec. 2, with bank DBS Group sliding 1.2 percent and publisher Singapore Press Holdings dropping 5.7 percent.

In Kuala Lumpur, the main index <.KLSE> fell 0.5 percent to its lowest since Nov. 30, with Malayan Banking down 1.03 percent and shipping firm MISC 1.8 percent lower.

NYMEX Crude Daily: remains in Negative

Market continue its losing streak with printed another long black candle had dampened the immediate technical landscape to turn weak. Thus, market may likely in sideways to lower move in near term. As for now, we are looking for the upside resistance at USD75.00. While, downside support is lies at USD68.00 followed by USD66.00-65.00.

CBOT Soyoil Daily: Upside move halted

Immediate daily technical landscape turns weak following prices violated support at USc39.37. Thus, market may continue to move sideways to bias downside potential if prices break further the physiological support at USc39.00. Next support will be looking at USc38.00. To the upside, resistance is pegged at USc41.40.

FCPO Daily: Consolidation phase likely to continue

Market tested the immediate support at 2520-2500 had slowing down the upside movement. Consolidation mode looks likely to continue in near term. We maintain the upside resistance at 2606 followed by 2650 levels. While, downside support is adjusted to 2500 followed by 2480-2450 levels.

RTRS-Palm oil prices to moderate from 2Q10 -DBS Vickers

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 9 - DBS Vickers on Wednesday issued a research note on Southeast Asia's plantation industry, saying it expects palm oil prices to weaken in the second-quarter next year as strong harvests are likely to drag down rival soyoil.

Trader's Highlgiht

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 8 (Reuters) - Risk aversion swelled on Tuesday driving global stocks down as worries over Dubai's debt problems hit bank shares and the dollar rose against the euro after Fitch Ratings agency downgraded Greece's credit.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> closed down 1.00 percent, at 10,285.97. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> fell 1.03 percent, at 1,091.94, and the Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> weakened 0.76 percent, at 2,172.99.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 8 (Reuters) - U.S. crude futures trimmed losses after industry data showed a surprise drawdown in domestic crude inventories last week.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange at 5:05 p.m. EST (2205 GMT), January crude was down 87 cents, or 1.18 percent, at $73.04 a barrel, after trading as low as $72.43 in post-settlement dealings. It had settled down $1.31, or 1.77 percent, at $72.62, trading $72.51 to $74.39 in regular floor trading hours. The intraday low was weakest since prices dropped to $72.39 on Nov. 27.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January down 9 cents at $10.44 per bushel. Retreated from early advances, pressed by firmer dollar and declines in crude oil. Additional pressure as traders unwind long soy/short corn spreads. Early strength tied to surge in China's Dalian soy futures to a 14-month high <0#DSAF0>, plus strong U.S. export demand and forecasts for shrinking U.S. soy supplies.

CBOT-SOYOIL - December down 0.20 at 40.11 cents per lb; January down 0.18 at 40.49 cents. Pressured by falling crude oil market, but underpinned by persistent strong gains in Dalian soyoil market. <0#DBYF0>

FCPO-JAKARTA, Dec 8 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures closed little changed on Tuesday, giving up the day's gains of one percent gain ahead of the release of end-November stocks data, traders said.

The benchmark February contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled up 2 ringgit, or 0.08 percent, at 2,561 ringgit ($754.79) per tonne, off the day's high of 2,590 ringgit. Overall volume was 13,138 lots of 25 tonnes each.

Industry regulator Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) is due to release end-November stocks data on Thursday.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, Dec 8 (Reuters) - Singapore stocks eked out small
gains on Tuesday, led by big-cap property firms such as CapitaLand, but Thai stocks extended losses due to lingering concern over the partial closure of a big industrial estate.

Major stock markets in the region, including Malaysia and Indonesia, were range-bound and turnover was low, as elsewhere in Asia.

Singapore <.FTSTI> ended 0.3 percent higher, with CapitaLand , Southeast Asia's biggest developer, adding 0.2 percent and its recently listed mall operator, CapitaMalls Asia , rising 0.8 percent.

In Kuala Lumpur, the main index <.KLSE> eased 0.3 percent to its lowest since Nov. 30, with gaming company Genting down 2.9 percent and Public Bank falling 0.2 percent.

FCPO Daily: Building up base

Market looks is entering into a consolidating mode after tested the fresh high at 2606 levels in order to build up a stronger base for a sustainable rally in near term. Thus market may continue to move sideways to higher with upside resistance is projected at 2606 followed by 2650 levels. While, downside support is lies at 2520-2500 followed by 2480-2450 levels.

FKLI Daily: Market momentum turning weak

Market momentum is turning weak despite prices struggling to survive at above 1250 physiological support levels. Thus, violation of either 1250 or 1275 may provide clearer direction to the market.

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 1-China Dec soy imports seen up at 3.87 mln T -MOFCOM

BEIJING, Dec 7 (Reuters) - China's commerce ministry expects the country's soy imports in December to rebound to 3.87 million tonnes, the third largest monthly import this year.
The ministry in its latest report revised down November soy imports to 2.66 million tonnes from its earlier estimate of 2.86 million tonnes.
A delayed harvest in the United States, the world's top soybean exporter, reduced the amount of arrivals for November.
But the ministry's estimate for December was still below that of a grain think tank, which expected a record 4.8 million tonnes.

Breaking News-RTRS--China soyoil trade at record on farm policy -report

BEIJING, Dec 7 (Reuters) - Soyoil trading volumes hit a record high on China's Dalian Commodity Exchange [0#DBY:] on Monday, supported by strong demand and news from a government economic meeting, a report from the exchange said.
Rising supermarket prices for edible oil have triggered a chain reaction, pushing retailers and merchants to build up their inventories, according to the Dalian report.
COFCO, one of the four major players in China's soybean crushing sector, raised cooking oil prices by 10 to 15 percent from December 1, a COFCO official told Xinhua news agency.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 7 (Reuters) - The dollar retreated from a five-week high and stocks edged lower on Monday after Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke doused speculation the Fed would raise interest rates soon, saying the economy remains fragile.

While Bernanke acknowledged the U.S. economy has improved, he said the jobless rate may remain elevated for some time. The remarks deflated market perceptions that last week's strong jobs data would lead the U.S. central bank to raise rates.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> was up 1.21 points, or 0.01 percent, at 10,390.11. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> was down 2.73 points, or 0.25 percent, at 1,103.25. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> was down 4.74 points, or 0.22 percent, at 2,189.61.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 7 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures fell on Monday for the fourth session in a row, to below $74 a barrel, pressured by continued concern for the economy.

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke on Monday cautioned that, while the U.S. economy has improved, recovery remains fragile.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, January crude settled down down $1.54, or 2.04 percent, at $73.93 a barrel, trading from $73.70 to $76.10.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January up 10 cents per bushel at $10.53. China's big demand for soybeans and higher Dalian soy futures complex
combined to lift soybean futures in addition to outlooks for dwindling U.S. soy supplies amid brisk exports.

CBOT-SOYOIL - December up 0.55 cent per lb at 40.31. January up 0.54 at 40.67. Support from soybeans and gains in Dalian soy complex futures but gains limited by weak crude oil.

FCPO-JAKARTA, Dec 7 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures edged down on Monday on profit-taking, after hitting a fresh six-month high, but the fall was limited thanks to stronger rival soybean oil prices, traders said.

Investors took a cautious stance ahead of the Malaysian Palm Oil Board's (MPOB) release of November stocks data on Thursday although they were still bullish on the price outlook, traders said.

The benchmark February contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled down 3 ringgit, or 0.1 percent, at 2,559 ringgit ($753.76) per tonne after going as high as 2,606 ringgit, a level unseen since June 5. Overall volume was 14,729 lots of 25 tonnes each.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-JAKARTA, Dec 7 (Reuters) - Southeast Asian stocks ended mixed
on Monday, with Indonesia's key index <.JKSE> down 1.1 percent, led by mining and financial stocks, while Vietnam <.VNI> rose 0.7 percent.

Singapore's index <.FTSTI> inched up 0.2 percent, while Malaysia <.KLSE> eased 0.38 percent and the Philippines <.PSI> lost 0.5 percent. The market in Thailand <.SETI> was closed on Monday for a holiday.

Commodity trading firm Noble Group and Southeast Asia's biggest property developer CapitaLand buoyed the Singapore stock market, with gains of 1.62 percent and 1.22 percent respectively.

In Kuala Lumpur, the second-largest mobile phone provider Axiata Group Bhd eased 1.3 percent, while gaming firm Genting Bhd rose 1.1 percent.

FCPO Daily: remains in Positive mode

Market shies away after tested the 2600 levels. Immediate technical landscape maintain in positive mode, thus market may continue to move sideways to higher in near term. Upside resistance will be looking at 2650 levels. While, downside support is lies at 2480-2450 followed by 2428-2419 (left over gap on 23/11/2009).

FKLI Daily: Looks tiredness

Market looks tiredness as prices continue to struggle at above 1250 physiological support levels. We are still looking for the immediate support at 1250 levels. Violation of it may provide more room to bias downside potential which next support will be pegged at 1230 followed by 1200 levels. To the upside, immediate resistance is at 1275 followed by 1286.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, Dec 4 (Reuters) - The U.S. dollar jumped and global stocks soared on Friday after data showing the United States shed far fewer jobs last month than expected boosted hopes the U.S. economy is taking solid steps forward.

But the surprisingly strong report on the U.S. labor market stoked speculation the Federal Reserve may move to raise interest rates from record lows sooner than initially thought.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> rose 22.75 points, or 0.22 percent, at 10,388.90. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> gained 6.06 points, or 0.55 percent, at 1,105.98. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> added 21.21 points, or 0.98 percent, at 2,194.35.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, Dec 4 (Reuters) - U.S. crude futures ended below $76 on Friday, in a commodities sell-off sparked by a surge in the dollar, which overshadowed data showing a decline in the U.S. unemployment rate.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, January crude settled down 99 cents, or 1.29 percent, at $75.47 a barrel, trading from $74.85 to $77.90. From a week ago, the contract fell 58 cents, or 0.76 percent.

At the close, the discount for NYMEX January crude against February crude was $1.78, edging up from $1.75 on Thursday. It widened as much as $2.45 in the session, the steepest since Aug. 19.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - January down 4 cents at $10.43 a bushel. Weighed down by firm dollar despite persistent strong export and domestic demand for U.S. soy. Prices turned lower as crude oil turned down.

CBOT-SOYOIL - December up 0.01 cent at 39.76 cents per lb, January up 0.01 cent at 40.13 cents. Support from some unwinding of meal/oil spreads.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 4 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures rose as much as 4.8 percent on Friday to hit a six-month high on forecasts that palm oil may climb above 3,000 ringgit next year.

Palm oil prices shot up in the second trading session of the day but have since pulled back on concerns of higher stocks last month and slower exports in December.

The benchmark February contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange rose as much as 118 ringgit to 2,596 ringgit ($768.3), a level unseen since June 5. The contract then settled at 2,562 ringgit.

Trade volumes more than doubled to 22,897 lots of 25 tonnes each due to an inflow of funds, traders said.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, Dec 4 (Reuters) - Southeast Asian stocks mostly fell
on Friday, with Singapore snapping a three-day winning streak and Thai stocks sagging as energy and industrial counters PTT and Siam Cement continued to suffer from an adverse court ruling.

Singapore's benchmark stock index <.FTSTI> edged down 0.6 percent after rising 0.4 percent on Thursday, Malaysia <.KLSE> fell 0.2 percent and Thailand <.SETI> lost 0.7 percent, erasing some of its 1.9 percent rally a day earlier.

A fall in Malaysian builder Gamuda , down 2.2 percent, capped gains in Kuala Lumpur.

NYMEX Crude Weekly: Losing ground

Market continue to lose ground following the violation of the immediate support at USD75.00. Thus, market may move sideways to lower in near term. As for now, we are looking for the upside resistance at USD82.00. While, underline support will be pegged at USD72.00.