On Monday, March 10, 2025, markets across the Asia-Pacific region exhibited varied results, reflecting a complex global economic landscape. This follows a week of significant volatility influenced by trade tensions, inflation concerns, and mixed economic data.​

Australia's S&P/ASX 200 Index

The S&P/ASX 200 index rose by 0.34%, closing at a six-month high. This uptick occurred despite global uncertainties, highlighting resilience in the Australian market.​

Japan's Nikkei 225 and Topix Indices

Japan's benchmark Nikkei 225 opened flat, while the broader Topix index edged down by 0.1%. In January, Japan's cash earnings increased by 2.8% year-on-year, a slowdown from December's revised 4.4% growth.​

South Korea's Kospi and Kosdaq

South Korea's Kospi index opened 0.14% lower, and the small-cap Kosdaq declined by 0.83%, reflecting investor caution amid global economic uncertainties.​

Hong Kong's Hang Seng Futures

Futures for Hong Kong's Hang Seng index stood at 24,144, indicating a potentially stronger open compared to Friday's close of 24,231.30. This suggests a cautiously optimistic outlook for the Hong Kong market.​

China's Consumer Inflation

Over the weekend, China's consumer price index (CPI) fell by 0.7% in February year-on-year, marking the first decline in 13 months. This decrease is attributed to seasonal factors and deflationary pressures, raising concerns about domestic demand and economic stability.​

U.S. Market Performance

In the U.S., major stock indices closed higher on Friday, March 7. The S&P 500 gained 0.55% to 5,770.20, the Nasdaq Composite rose 0.7% to 18,196.22, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.52% to end at 42,801.72. Despite these gains, the S&P 500 recorded its worst week in several months, reflecting ongoing concerns over trade policies and economic growth.​

Upcoming U.S. Inflation Data

Investors are awaiting the release of the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February on March 12, 2025. This data is crucial for assessing inflation trends and informing Federal Reserve policy decisions. ​

Global Economic Outlook

The term "Trumpcession" has emerged, referring to potential recession risks associated with President Trump's tariffs and economic policies. These measures may lead to higher consumer prices and increased production costs, contributing to inflationary pressures.

Analyst Insights

Goldman Sachs has raised its target for emerging markets stocks, citing an artificial intelligence-driven rally in Chinese equities. This optimism is tempered by ongoing trade tensions and potential policy-induced inflation.