Natural rubber production decreased by 5.9 per cent in September 2022 (35,460 tonnes) as compared to August 2022 (37,666 tonnes). Year-on-year comparison also showed that the production of natural rubber decreased by 13.9 per cent (September 2021: 41,180 tonnes). Production of natural rubber in September 2022 for Malaysia was mainly contributed by smallholders sector (87.9%) as compared to estates sector (12.1%).

U.S. wholesale inventories increased less than initially thought in September amid decreases in stocks of petroleum and computer equipment, also suggesting that businesses were carefully managing their inventory amid slowing demand.

Japan's current account suffered the biggest year-on-year decline in the first half of this fiscal year since the 2008 global financial crisis, as the trade balance fell into deficit due to a weakening yen and rising global commodity prices.

China's new yuan loans likely slumped in October from September, a Reuters poll showed, as stringent curbs to stamp out COVID-19 outbreaks and a property sector debt crisis hurt economic activity and credit demand.

Asian share markets pulled back on Thursday and the dollar held its overnight gains before the big test of a U.S. consumer inflation report, while market sentiment took a dive as the likely collapse of a major crypto exchange spooked investors.

Oil prices fell further on Thursday amid growing concerns over a slowdown in global economic growth, with focus now turning to upcoming U.S. inflation data that is expected to set the tone for monetary policy in the coming months.