Market Overview

Despite a softer US inflation report for February, major stock indices in the Asia-Pacific region traded lower on Thursday. Geopolitical risks, trade tensions, and concerns over regional economic growth have overshadowed the positive impact of the easing price pressures indicated by the latest CPI data from the US.

Regional Market Performance

Japan's Nikkei 225 remained flat at 7:16 am CET. Meanwhile, Hong Kong's Hang Seng dropped by 1.18%, and South Korea's Kospi was down by 0.49%. In mainland China, the Shanghai Composite fell by 0.71%, and the Shenzhen Composite decreased by 1.50% at the same time. Australia's S&P/ASX 200 closed with a loss of 0.48%.

Currency Movements

At 7:17 am CET, the dollar traded 0.41% lower against the yen, selling for 147.6465.