KUALA LUMPUR (April 9): Genting Bhd chairman and chief executive Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay said the casino and hotel operator is "cautiously optimistic" on global economic prospects for 2018, because one can never predict unforeseen circumstances.

Lim said in Genting's annual report today that while the diversified group's business strategies incorporate risk management and sustainability practices to ensure business continuity, one can never predict unforeseen circumstances.

"Therefore, we will always remain vigilant of the developments that could affect our local and global economies and impact our businesses. We will continue to work diligently to ensure our existing businesses remain strong, while keeping the development of new projects on track.

"No matter how challenging things may be, I will continue to guide and lead my team to deliver the best performance possible for Genting Bhd," Lim said. According to Genting's annual report, the group's businesses include oil palm plantations and electricity generation, besides oil and gas operations. 

At Bursa Malaysia, Genting shares settled at RM8.80 at 12:30pm, for a market value of RM33.72 billion. Genting saw 298,200 shares transacted.