Asian Market Overview
Asian markets moved mixed this Thursday, amid rising tensions between Washington and Beijing, disappointing Chinese economic data, and a return to safe havens. Gold remains near its 4-week highs, and caution prevails after weak US job creation.
Japan – Nikkei 225 -0.47%
The Nikkei fell, weighed down by a fresh drop in real wages for a fourth consecutive month, heightening doubts about domestic consumption. The yen stayed stable after a recent rebound. The Bank of Japan may consider slowing its monetary tightening.
Stocks in motion: SoftBank -1.2%, Fast Retailing -0.9%
China – Shanghai Composite +0.08%
The Chinese market remains sluggish, torn between weak PMIs and a mild services recovery. US-China trade tensions over rare earths and technology fuel uncertainty.
Impacted sectors: Technology (regulatory uncertainties), commodities (rare earths), services (modest rebound)
Hong Kong – Hang Seng +0.52%
Third consecutive session of gains led by tech giants, despite persistent tensions with the US. Beijing looks to Europe (Airbus) to diversify partnerships.
Top stocks: Alibaba +1.4%, Tencent +1.2%, Meituan +1.9%
India – Sensex +0.45%
Sensex rises, supported by resilient domestic demand and expectations of post-election budget measures.
Stocks to watch: Tata Steel +1.1%, HDFC Bank +0.9%
Why does this matter?
Asian markets remain caught between mixed economic data and geopolitical uncertainties. Investor caution over US-China tensions and US macro influences decision-making globally.
US After Market Update
Analysis of post-closing Wall Street moves:
MongoDB (MDB) +14.60% → Strong Q1 results, upgraded annual guidance, and new share buyback program launched.
Verint Systems (VRNT) +19.17% → Earnings and revenue exceeded expectations.
Planet Labs (PL) +14.03% → Better results, non-GAAP profit in line.
Tilly’s (TLYS) +16.15%
Xcel Brands (XELB) +18.61%
Five Below (FIVE) +4.63% → Solid results, despite the surprise CFO departure.
US Futures Pre-market
Dow Futures: -0.04%
S&P 500 Futures: -0.04%
Nasdaq 100 Futures: -0.03%
Conclusion
Markets start the day with uncertainty: US-China tension, US macro slowdown, and anticipation of tomorrow's NFP jobs report.
Sectors at risk: Chinese tech (export restrictions), Japanese consumption (wage declines), US retail (mixed results). Expect volatility.
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Have a great session everyone
Sylvain Mouilhaud: Equity Coach
