KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 8): The FBM KLCI is expected to extend its gains today in line with the strong start at most global markets last week, and stay above the 1,800-point level.

The ringgit is also seen to be at the centre of attention as it remains strong versus the US dollar as it hovers at the 4.000 level.

Oil and gas-related stocks will also remain in focus with crude oil prices still holding steady.

World stocks continued their strong start to 2018, with both the S&P and Nasdaq posting their best weekly gains in more than a year, while U.S. Treasury yields rose despite a weaker-than-expected U.S. jobs report, according to Reuters.

MSCI's gauge of stocks across the globe gained 0.66 percent, reaching a fresh record high on the day, it said.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average last rose 220.74 points, or 0.88 percent, to 25,295.87, the S&P 500 gained 19.16 points, or 0.70 percent, to 2,743.15 and the Nasdaq Composite added 58.64 points, or 0.83 percent, to 7,136.56, said Reuters.

Based on corporate announcements and news flow yesterday, companies in focus on today may include: MCT Bhd, Scomi Group Bhd, Scomi Engineering Bhd, Scomi Energy Bhd, MGB Bhd, My E.G. Services Bhd, AMMB Holdings Bhd, Eduspec Holdings Bhd, Konsortium Transnasional Bhd, Tan Chong Motor Holdings Bhd and Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd.