Markets across Asia and Australia opened the day with cautious optimism, reflecting investor sentiment shaped by technology gains, expectations of global rate cuts, and rising commodity prices. India’s benchmark indices, however, slipped in early trade as concerns about US policy changes weighed on export-driven sectors.
Asian markets mixed amid tech optimism
Asian shares showed a divided performance this morning. Investors across the region responded to optimism around artificial intelligence and technology, particularly following strong signals from global semiconductor firms. South Korea’s Kospi rose by nearly 0.7%, led by gains in chipmakers and electronics.
In contrast, China’s Shanghai Composite and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng opened lower, dragged by investor caution over property sector instability and slower consumer demand. Japan’s markets were closed for a public holiday, removing one of the region’s largest players from today’s session.
India struggles with early declines
Indian markets opened weaker, with both the Sensex and Nifty retreating after a positive start. By mid-morning, the Sensex had fallen from opening gains, while the Nifty slipped below 25,300. Analysts attributed this pullback to worries surrounding the recent increase in US H-1B visa fees, which directly affects India’s key IT services sector.
Export-linked companies, particularly in technology and outsourcing, were among the hardest hit. While the fall was modest, traders suggested that sentiment may remain fragile in the short term, with global monetary policy and trade tensions setting the tone.
Australia supported by resources and gold rally
The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX 200) edged higher in morning trade, supported by strength in resource and gold-linked stocks. Global gold prices reached fresh record highs overnight, prompting a rally among local miners. Broader market sentiment in Australia reflected cautious optimism, although concerns over currency fluctuations and external demand remained present.
Global factors continue to dominate sentiment
Across all three regions, investor focus remains trained on US monetary policy, with expectations that further rate cuts could ease financing conditions worldwide. The rally in commodities, particularly gold, underlined ongoing demand for safe-haven assets as geopolitical and trade uncertainties persist.
Market analysts warned that volatility could remain elevated in the coming sessions as traders balance optimism in technology sectors with broader global risks. For India in particular, the sensitivity of the IT industry to changes in US policy is likely to continue driving short-term sentiment.
Newshub Editorial in Asia-Pacific – 23 September 2025
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