Asian Session Recap: August 22, 2025
Japan – Nikkei 225 -0.10%
Uncertain session for Japanese stocks: the Nikkei edged down slightly while the Topix rose (+0.4%). Markets digested inflation figures that remain above the BoJ’s target (core CPI at +3.1%). The weak yen (at 145.5/USD) adds to uncertainty, as do rumors of a benchmark bond yield hike by the Ministry of Finance (2.6% in 2026/27 – a 17-year high).
China – Shanghai Composite +0.66%
New decade-high driven by strong sector rotation and investor enthusiasm. Stimulus hopes are materializing: Beijing will launch a consumer loan subsidy in September, covering 90% of interest for one year.
Hong Kong – Hang Seng +0.25%
The index remains positive, supported by broad sector gains. The market indirectly benefits from the positive momentum in mainland China and expectations of government support.
India – Sensex -0.61%
Pullback after six days of gains. Caution prevails ahead of Jerome Powell’s highly anticipated Jackson Hole speech. Despite this, trade data with China remains strong (+20% exports over 4 months), supporting macroeconomic prospects.
Session Summary
Asian markets moved mixed this Friday, reflecting both concerns about inflation in Japan and hopes for stimulus in China. Investors remain cautious ahead of Jerome Powell’s key speech, but China’s resilience is giving Asia renewed momentum.
US After Market Update
Zoom Video Communications ($ZM) +5.69% → Stronger-than-expected results: EPS of $1.53 (+$0.15), revenue at $1.22B (+$20M).
Cycurion ($CYCU) +23.72% → Returned to compliance with Nasdaq requirements.
Ross Stores ($ROST) +2.05% → Solid results despite slightly below-expected revenue.
Meta Platforms ($META) → Signed a strategic cloud contract with Google Cloud ($10 billion over 6 years).
5E Advanced Materials ($FEAM) -12.91% → Sharp drop after a public offering announcement.
Workday ($WDAY) -3.77% → Despite beating expectations, the stock fell, likely due to profit-taking or cautious outlook.
US Futures in Pre-Market
Dow Futures: +0.02%
S&P 500 Futures: +0.01%
Nasdaq 100 Futures: -0.08%
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Have a great session
Sylvain Mouilhaud: Equity Coach