AGN Evening News | May 22: Financial stress reshapes spending in Malaysia, Asia’s central banks recalibrate policy, and Japan’s minister resigns over food gaffe.

Malaysia News

81% of Malaysians now use BNPL for essentials

• SPayLater is a key tool for Malaysians managing basic needs and emergencies.
  
• Most users are low-income earners with limited access to traditional credit.
  
• The trend underlines broader financial stress across the population.
  

International News

Indonesia cuts rates, vows to stabilize rupiah

• Benchmark rate slashed to 5.5% to stimulate economic growth.
  
• The rupiah gained marginally; GDP forecast now lowered to 4.6–5.4%.
  
• Governor Warjiyo signals potential market interventions if needed.
  

Asia News

Taiwan central bank resets markets with currency spike

• The TWD’s sharp appreciation was a calculated move to manage market expectations.
  
• Taiwan dollar now stabilizing around 30.15 per US dollar.
  
• Central bank says it has used this tactic before to realign sentiment.
  

Japan’s farm minister resigns over rice comment

• Minister Taku Eto stepped down after admitting he never bought rice.
  
• The remark sparked backlash as Japan faces surging food prices.
  

His exit deals a blow to PM Ishiba’s leadership during a sensitive time.

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