KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 – Malaysia has emerged as Southeast Asia’s most active initial public offering (IPO) market after recording 38 new listings worth US$1.62 billion in the first nine months of 2026.
The latest figures were reported by Ernst & Young (EY).
Malaysia accounted for 38 of the 56 IPOs recorded across Southeast Asia during the period.
The listings raised about RM6.56 billion, based on the exchange rate stated in the report.
This was higher than the US$992 million raised through 37 IPOs during the same period in 2025.
The increase represents a rise of about 63 per cent in funds raised.
Malaysia Records Stronger IPO Performance
Malaysia continued to attract companies looking to raise funds through the stock market.
During the third quarter of 2026, the country recorded nine IPOs worth US$167.2 million.
In comparison, Malaysia recorded eight IPOs worth US$94 million in the same quarter last year.
The latest figures show that Malaysia maintained its listing activity while several other Southeast Asian markets experienced slower growth.
Singapore and Indonesia Follow Malaysia
Singapore recorded eight IPOs worth US$1.28 billion during the first nine months of 2026.
Indonesia followed with seven listings worth US$121.3 million. Thailand recorded three IPOs worth US$21.3 million.
Across Southeast Asia, companies raised a total of US$3 billion through 56 IPOs.
However, regional activity slowed compared with the same period last year.
The number of listings fell by 26 per cent, while the total funds raised dropped by 13 per cent.
Investors Become More Selective
EY Capital Markets representative Nghia Trung Nguyen said Malaysia performed better than last year in both the number of listings and funds raised.
He said the stronger results showed continued investor interest in companies with solid business foundations and good growth potential.
He also highlighted the importance of the capital market in helping businesses raise funds and reach more investors.
However, he said companies planning to go public must prepare carefully.
They need to understand market conditions and investor expectations. Strong business performance, good corporate governance and a clear growth strategy are also important.
These factors can help companies attract investors and maintain confidence after their IPO.
Global IPO Fundraising Reaches US$290 Billion
EY also reported mixed results in the global IPO market.
A total of 908 companies went public worldwide during the first nine months of 2026. They raised US$290 billion altogether.
Although the number of IPOs fell by two per cent, the total funds raised increased by 153 per cent compared with the same period in 2025.
In Asia-Pacific, 399 IPOs raised US$93.2 billion. This represented a 14 per cent increase in listings and a 79 per cent rise in funds raised.
Meanwhile, the Europe, Middle East, India and Africa region recorded 389 IPOs worth US$30.2 billion.
The Americas recorded 120 IPOs worth US$166.6 billion. Although the number of listings fell by 35 per cent, funds raised increased by 392 per cent.
EY said regulatory changes, economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions had affected IPO activity in Southeast Asia.
Despite these challenges, Malaysia remained the region’s leading market for new listings during the first nine months of 2026.
Source : BERNAMA | Rewritten By Minutesmy
