0128 GMT - Top Glove could benefit from short-term disruptions in synthetic rubber markets caused by the Middle East conflict, Maybank IB analyst Wong Wei Sum says in a note. That is because it can produce both nitrile and natural rubber gloves, offering alternatives for price-sensitive customers, she says. Management is confident of passing on higher nitrile latex costs thanks to inelastic demand and low inventory levels, she notes. Recent gains in nitrile latex prices and supply disruptions may trigger mixed responses among clients, including panic buying, temporary order delays and switches to natural rubber gloves, she says. However, overall demand is expected to remain resilient, supported by tight inventory levels across the supply chain, she adds. Maybank maintains a hold rating on Top Glove and keeps its target price at 0.62 ringgit. Shares are 1.7% lower at 0.56 ringgit. (yingxian.wong@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

March 18, 2026 21:28 ET (01:28 GMT)

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