DBS Group Considers Stakes in Malaysian Banks

DBS Group Holdings Ltd, Singapore's largest lender, is considering expanding into Malaysia by acquiring stakes in local banks, including a potential purchase of Temasek's 29.1% stake in Alliance Bank Malaysia Bhd, valued at approximately $460 million. Additionally, DBS is looking into acquiring Kuwait Finance House's Malaysian retail banking assets, which are worth over $500 million. Currently, DBS lacks a retail banking presence in Malaysia, a gap that its rivals, such as Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation and United Overseas Bank, have filled. The bank's interest coincides with Malaysia's strong economic growth, which reached 5.9% in the second quarter, driven by increased consumer spending and infrastructure investments. However, any formal negotiations for acquisitions will require approval from Bank Negara Malaysia, and discussions are still in the early stages. DBS has declined to comment on the rumors, maintaining a cautious approach as it explores these opportunities.