American Invest Hub
  • Politics
  • Investing
  • Business
  • Latest News

American Invest Hub

  • Politics
  • Investing
  • Business
  • Latest News
Business

Asia-Pacific markets mixed as Japan inflation data, Trump tariff threats weigh on sentiment

by admin February 21, 2025
February 21, 2025
Asia-Pacific markets mixed as Japan inflation data, Trump tariff threats weigh on sentiment

Asia-Pacific markets traded mixed on Friday as investors reacted to Japan’s inflation hitting a two-year high and weighed the potential impact of renewed tariff threats from US President Donald Trump.

While some regional indexes posted gains, concerns over tightening monetary policy in Japan and global economic uncertainty kept sentiment in check.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 slipped 0.43%, while the Topix declined 0.33% after data showed the country’s inflation rate surged to 4% in January, the highest since early 2023.

Core inflation, which excludes fresh food prices, rose to 3.2%, exceeding Reuters’ forecast of 3.1%.

The data fueled expectations of further interest rate hikes by the Bank of Japan (BOJ), leading to a stronger yen.

The currency traded at 150.22 per US dollar, reaching a two-month high amid bets on policy tightening.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index jumped 2.25%, with the Hang Seng Tech Index climbing 3.44%, boosted by a sharp rally in Alibaba shares, which surged 11% after the company posted strong quarterly profits.

China’s CSI 300 index edged up 0.4%, while South Korea’s Kospi dropped 0.42%, and the Kosdaq added 0.43%.

Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 advanced 0.59%, reflecting investor optimism in the region.

Wall Street pulls back from record highs

Overnight, US markets saw a sharp selloff after the S&P 500 hit record highs for two consecutive days.

A disappointing earnings forecast from retail giant Walmart raised concerns about consumer spending and the broader economic outlook, leading to a downturn in major indexes.

  • The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 450.94 points (1.01%) to 44,176.65.
  • The S&P 500 lost 0.43%, closing at 6,117.52.
  • The Nasdaq Composite declined 0.47%, finishing at 19,962.36.

Investors are now closely watching US economic data and Federal Reserve policy signals to assess the potential trajectory of interest rates.

Morgan Stanley upgrades MSCI China outlook

In a notable shift, Morgan Stanley upgraded its rating on the MSCI China Index to equal weight from underweight, citing improved equity risk premiums.

While the firm remains cautious about China’s macroeconomic outlook, strategist Jonathan Garner highlighted strengthening return-on-equity trends, signaling a better investment environment for Chinese stocks.

Garner emphasized that the upgrade was driven by valuation factors rather than a broader bullish stance on China’s economy, as Morgan Stanley’s economists still anticipate below-consensus nominal GDP growth in 2025.

The post Asia-Pacific markets mixed as Japan inflation data, Trump tariff threats weigh on sentiment appeared first on Invezz

0
FacebookTwitterGoogle +Pinterest
previous post
Meta executives eligible for 200% salary bonus under new pay structure
next post
Dow sinks over 400 points, S&P retreats from highs amid Walmart scare

Related Posts

Biden administration sues to block Kroger-Albertsons supermarket merger

February 27, 2024

Long EBAY: eBay Inc. Q3 Earnings Highlight GMV...

December 5, 2024

Nasdaq, S&P 500 rise ahead of key earnings;...

November 19, 2024

US markets slide as Trump’s tariffs rattle investors;...

February 2, 2025

UK retailers warn of price hikes in 2025...

January 9, 2025

GM CEO says commitment to all-electric fleet remains...

June 7, 2024

Ally Financial stock drops 18% amid credit challenges:...

September 11, 2024

Best FTSE 100 shares to buy ahead of...

March 19, 2025

FTSE 100 forecast ahead of BoE decision, BT,...

November 4, 2024

Goldman Sachs reveals stocks set to gain from...

October 5, 2024

    Stay updated with the latest news, exclusive offers, and special promotions. Sign up now and be the first to know! As a member, you'll receive curated content, insider tips, and invitations to exclusive events. Don't miss out on being part of something special.


    By opting in you agree to receive emails from us and our affiliates. Your information is secure and your privacy is protected.

    Latest News

    • Interview: Strategic location gives Brazil Potash cost advantage in domestic fertiliser market, says CEO Matt Simpson

      June 1, 2025
    • Canada’s Q1 GDP expands by 2.2%, driven by exports spike ahead of potential US tariffs

      June 1, 2025
    • President Trump to host farewell for Elon Musk as DOGE leader steps away

      June 1, 2025
    • UK’s digital banks face divergent fortunes: Starling stumbles, Monzo and Revolut soars

      June 1, 2025
    • Trump wants Apple to shift iPhone production from India to the US: here’s what it means

      May 18, 2025

    Categories

    • Business (3,012)
    • Investing (2,455)
    • Latest News (1,994)
    • Politics (1,530)
    • About us
    • Contact us
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms & Conditions

    Disclaimer: americaninvesthub.com, its managers, its employees, and assigns (collectively “The Company”) do not make any guarantee or warranty about what is advertised above. Information provided by this website is for research purposes only and should not be considered as personalized financial advice. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendation. Any investments recommended here should be taken into consideration only after consulting with your investment advisor and after reviewing the prospectus or financial statements of the company.

    Copyright © 2025 americaninvesthub.com | All Rights Reserved