Maybank Investment Bank is looking at a stock market benchmark index target of 1,830 for this year. PETALING JAYA: A combination of better earnings and ample liquidity is what will drive the local equity market higher this year. Maybank Kim Eng regional head (equity research) Anand Pathmakanthan said the investment bank was looking at a 45% year-on-year growth in terms of corporate earnings this year against a decline of 11% last year, supported by continued growth in the earnings of glove companies as well as a recovery in earnings of sectors like banking and plantation. “Earnings outlook and liquidity – in both areas, 2021 is looking good, “ he said via an online briefing session yesterday organised by Maybank Investment Bank.