KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 18): The FBM KLCI edged up in early trade today in line with most regional markets, but the market is seen consolidating as domestic sentiment remains fragile.

At 9am, the FBM KLCI edged up 0.55 poins to 1,573.09.

The early gainers included Petronas Dagangan Bhd, MISC Bhd, Scientex Bhd, Guinness Anchor Bhd, AMMB Holdings Bhd, IHH Healthcare Bhd, Tenaga Nasional Bhd, YSP Southeast Asia Bhd, Kulim (M) Bhd, Gamuda Bhd and DiGi.Com Bhd.

Asian shares were steady on Tuesday after strong US housing data offset concerns from a weak US manufacturing report, while the dollar's yield advantage kept it firm, according to Reuters.

Japan's Nikkei rose 0.1% while South Korean shares gained 0.4% and Australian shares rose 0.2%, it said.

JF Apex Securities Research in a market preview today said US markets climbed amid improved home builder data, lower manufacturing data and falling oil prices.

Meanwhile, it said European equities were mixed as investors anticipate the outcome of Greece's third bailout program.

“On the local market, the FBM KLCI plunged 24.28 points to 1,572.54 points to extend its selldown.

“Following the mixed performance in the US and Europe, we expect the FBM KLCI to consolidate above its support of 1,545 points,” it said.