Asian equity markets ended Friday broadly lower, as persistent weakness in global technology stocks and cautious positioning ahead of key U.S. data pushed investors toward defensive assets.
Selling pressure was most visible in Japan and Hong Kong, where exporters and growth names led declines. The region tracked overnight losses in Wall Street tech shares, reinforcing concerns that lofty valuations in artificial-intelligence-linked companies may face further near-term correction.
Technology drag defines the session
Japan’s Nikkei 225 slipped as electronics and semiconductor suppliers underperformed, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index closed sharply lower, driven by selling in internet and platform stocks. Mainland Chinese benchmarks were mixed, with selective buying in state-linked infrastructure names offset by losses in consumer technology.
Australia also finished in negative territory as mining shares softened alongside weaker iron-ore prices, while South Korea saw modest declines across manufacturing and financials.
Currencies mixed, caution dominant
Regional currencies showed uneven movement against the U.S. dollar, with safe-haven flows lending mild support to the Japanese yen. Trading volumes were lighter than average as investors reduced exposure ahead of upcoming macro releases.
Market participants cited continued uncertainty around global interest-rate timing, slowing external demand, and rising geopolitical noise as factors limiting risk appetite.
Outlook remains data-dependent
Despite Friday’s weakness, several strategists noted that Asian markets remain supported by relatively stable domestic fundamentals and targeted policy measures in China. However, short-term direction is expected to remain closely tied to U.S. inflation data and global technology earnings.
For now, the tone across Asia reflects consolidation rather than panic, with investors favouring capital preservation while awaiting clearer signals from developed markets.
Newshub Editorial in Asia – 13 February 2026
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