Morning Outlook: Malaysai, Oil, Top Stocks

Malaysia Leads Southeast Asia

The Malaysian stock market rose to its highest level ever this morning after trading higher by as much as 8% following yesterday’s election results. The ruling coalition Barisan Nasional extended their 56-year rule over the country and the “free money” approach they take helped stocks soar. The Ringgit (Malaysian currency) also had a strong day with an increase of 1.4%. Its neighboring countries are also enjoying some love as Vietnam is up 3% and Indonesia is rising by 1.4%.

ETFs to Watch: iShares Malaysia ($EWM), iShares Indonesia ($EIDO), Market Vectors Indonesia Small-Cap ($IDXJ), Global X FTSE ASEAN ($ASEA)

Oil Rises on Syria Fears

One of factors that moves the price of oil is geopolitical tension and over the weekend the tension has risen between Syria and Israel. Syria has vowed to retaliate after Israel bombed the area outside the capital of Damascus. Due to the potential for the conflict to escalate and the possibility of Iran getting involved, brent oil futures rose to their highest level in a month.

ETFs to Watch: iShares Israel ($EIS), US Brent Oil ETF ($BNO)
 
Market Flat

The futures are indicating a flat open for the major indices, with the NASDAQ up slightly – led by tech names Apple ($AAPL) and Intel ($INTC). After going through hundreds of charts this weekend I came up with a list of about 40 or so stocks/ETFs that were added to the PFG WatchList. There are mega-cap names, small unknown stocks, and high dividend-paying players on the list.

Here are 2 that I found intriguing:

·  Avis Budget Group (CAR) – Rental car company that trades with an ultra-low PEG Ratio of 0.39

·  Alaska Air Group (ALK) – Mid-sized airline company that is breaking out of a consolidation pattern and trades with a PEG Ratio of 0.74