Asian Markets Close Mixed Amid Lingering Tariff Fears

Investors Brace for Potential Trade War Escalation as Trump's Tariff Strategy Shifts Toward Asian Economies

Asian stock markets ended on a mixed note on Monday (24), as investor sentiment remained fragile amid growing concerns over potential new U.S. tariffs. Market participants fear that President Donald Trump may refine his trade strategy to specifically target nations with significant trade surpluses against the U.S., a move that could heavily impact major Asian economies.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the White House's impending "reciprocal tariffs"—set to take effect on April 2—may signal a more aggressive stance in the ongoing trade disputes, prompting caution across global financial markets.

Regional Market Performance

• Japan: The Nikkei 225 dipped 0.18%, closing at 37,608.49 points, weighed down by losses in chipmakers and banking stocks.

• Hong Kong: The Hang Seng Index bucked the trend, gaining 0.91% to settle at 23,905.56 points, supported by a rally in technology shares.

• South Korea: The Kospi retreated 0.42% to 2,632.07 points as investors locked in profits following five consecutive sessions of gains.

• Taiwan: The Taiex declined 0.46%, finishing at 22,106.64 points.

• China: The Shanghai Composite edged up 0.15% to 3,370.03 points, while the Shenzhen Composite slipped 0.66% to 2,049.81 points.

• Australia: In the Pacific region, the S&P/ASX 200 recorded a slight gain of 0.07%, closing at 7,936.90 points—securing its third consecutive positive session.

  
  

China’s Next Moves Under Watch

Investors are closely monitoring developments in China, as the country’s Ministry of Commerce is set to release an economic update on Thursday (27). The announcement has fueled speculation that Beijing may unveil fresh stimulus measures to bolster its slowing economy in response to the looming tariff threats.

Market Outlook

With Trump's recalibrated tariff approach on the horizon, uncertainty remains a dominant theme in global financial markets. Investors are bracing for potential volatility as trade tensions persist, with Asian economies at the forefront of the next phase in U.S. trade policy shifts. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether diplomatic efforts can ease fears or if financial markets must prepare for further disruptions.

Stay tuned for updates as this developing trade saga unfolds.