KUALA LUMPUR (March 7): Maybank Investment Bank Bhd (Maybank IB) has reaffirmed its dominant position within Malaysia's debt capital markets by sweeping the top ranking across all four categories at the 22nd RAM League Awards 2025. This recognition is notable for Maybank IB, solidifying its reputation amid increasing competition.
During the awards ceremony, Maybank IB was highlighted for its exemplary performance concerning corporate bonds and sukuk issued in 2024, achieving five transactions within each category. The total programme value reported stood at RM12 billion, reflecting significant activity and growth within the market.
Two landmark transactions curated by Maybank IB received special mention, earning accolades at the RAM Blueprint Awards. These awards celebrate innovative entries from new issuers, and Maybank’s arrangements stood out for their contribution to the industry.
One remarkable achievement was the recognition of Johor Plantations Group Bhd's (KL:JPG) RM3 billion sustainability-linked sukuk programme. It was celebrated as the world’s first sukuk dedicated to the plantation sector, marking a pivotal moment for environmental finance and emphasizing innovative strategies within the sector.
Adding to this, Keyfield International’s debut RM1 billion Sukuk Wakalah programme also garnered recognition for its novelty and market potential. Both deals not only highlight Maybank IB’s adept structuring skills but also their commitment to fostering sustainable finance.
Michael Oh-Lau, the chief executive officer of Maybank IB, attributed these accolades to the institution's depth of expertise and innovation. He stated, “These accolades reflect Maybank IB’s depth of expertise in structuring innovative transactions and effectively supporting clients to tap the capital markets to fuel their growth. We would like to thank our clients for their support and our teams for their dedication.”
Looking forward, Maybank IB has set ambitious goals for the year, projecting a gross private debt securities volume of RM125 billion for 2025. This projection would exceed the previous year's volume of RM123.8 billion, driven by advantageous factors such as stable interest rates, tight credit spreads, and sound economic policies invigorated by market dynamics.
Oh-Lau expressed optimism about this growth trend, noting, “Deals launched so far have seen strong investor support and interest. We are also seeing growing interest in sustainable finance from diverse sectors such as energy, power and utilities, real estate, healthcare, and plantation.”
The emphasis on renewable energy financing is particularly highlighting, as Oh-Lau indicated expectations for increased supply of bond or sukuk focused on renewable energy. This is especially relevant considering recent awards related to large-scale solar projects, which will likely require significant financing.
Overall, the outlook for Maybank IB and Malaysia’s debt capital markets appears positive as both the bank and the overarching market prepare for exciting developments driven by innovation and sustainability. The RAM League Awards stand as testimony to the effective strategies employed by Maybank IB, affirming its role as a trusted partner for issuers and investors alike.