Malaysia’s banks outperform, Japan combats food inflation, and US delays tariff hikes amid EU trade standoff.

Malaysia

• Maybank posted a 4% rise in 1Q profit to RM2.59 billion, driven by interest and insurance gains.
  
• AMMB reported a record RM2 billion annual profit, declaring a full-year dividend of 30.2 sen.
  
• Both banks signaled caution due to global volatility but remain focused on growth and risk management.
  

International

• President Trump has postponed planned tariffs on European imports to July 9.
  
• The delay follows concerns over failed trade talks with the EU and comes as markets brace for further disruptions.
  
• European leaders welcomed the delay but remain skeptical about US intentions.
  

Asia

• Japan will release 300,000 tons of rice from state reserves at fixed low prices.
  
• The move aims to control inflation, restore voter confidence, and ease cost-of-living burdens ahead of upcoming elections.
  

Agriculture Minister Koizumi said the government is prioritizing affordability and market stability.

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