KUALA LUMPUR (June 15): The FBM KLCI opened lower today in line with the tepid regional markets, as the looming UK referendum on June 23 on whether to stay or exit the European Union continued rattling world markets.

At 9am, the FBM KLCI fell 5.11 points to 1,621.00.

The top losers in early trade included British American Tobacco (M) Bhd, Petronas Dagangan Bhd, Sarawak Plantations Bhd, PPB Group Bhd, Prolexus Bhd, Maxis Bhd, IOI Corporation Bhd, Kossan Rubber Industries Bhd and Press Metal Bhd.

Asian shares dipped to near three-week lows while safehaven assets such as U.S. bonds and the yen were in demand on Wednesday on growing anxiety Britain will choose to leave the European Union next week, according to Reuters.

Mainland Chinese shares, among Asia's worst performers this year, could also come under pressure after U.S. index provider MSCI did not add domestic Chinese equities to its global emerging markets benchmark index, despite expectations it would, it said.

JF Apex Securities Research in a market preview today said US markets declined overnight as investors await the outcome of today's Federal Reserve meeting and lower oil price.

It said that similarly, European stocks tumbled following concerns on Brexit.

“On the local market, the FBM KLCI lost 3.66 points to 1626.11 to extend its selldown.

“Following the bearish sentiment in the US and European markets, the FBM KLCI could remain negative with support at 1610 points,” it said.