99 Speed Mart Retail's earnings outlook could remain positive, driven by continued store expansion, improving cost efficiencies and resilient demand for essential goods, Hong Leong IB analyst Jonathan Ooi says in a note. The company could benefit if more cost-of-living support measures are introduced ahead of a potential early general election, given its nationwide network and broad range of products eligible under government aid programs, he reckons. 99 Speed Mart plans to open 250 new stores annually to sustain earnings momentum and has reported no operational disruptions from Middle East geopolitical tensions, he notes. Hong Leong maintains a buy rating on 99 Speed Mart and keeps its target price at 4.24 ringgit. Shares are 0.3% lower at 3.55 ringgit. (yingxian.wong@wsj.com)