THE recovery theme was well in play even before Malaysia began its transition to the endemic phase of Covid-19 on April 1 because markets traditionally move ahead of the economy and financial results by at least six months. Some stocks began to rally in the early part of the year as investors anticipated that they would benefit from the reopening of borders. While some companies have continued to gain after the reopening of all economic sectors, profit-taking has had an effect on some stocks despite turning in a better financial performance year on year.