Equity markets across Asia opened lower today, reflecting renewed caution over global growth and uncertainty around US monetary policy. From Tokyo to Mumbai and Southeast Asia, investors are reacting to mixed signals on inflation, manufacturing data, and foreign capital flows.
Broad declines in Asia-Pacific
The MSCI Asia-Pacific ex-Japan index slipped around 0.4% in early trade, with Japan and Australia leading losses. Weaker-than-expected manufacturing data weighed on sentiment in Tokyo, while in Sydney, financials and resource-linked stocks dragged indexes down. Traders remain hesitant following remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who stressed persistent inflationary risks but offered no clear path on future rate cuts.
India sees cautious trading
Indian benchmarks, the Sensex and Nifty, opened modestly lower as global cues influenced local risk appetite. Foreign investors have been net sellers in recent sessions, amplifying downward pressure. At the same time, regulators are moving to accelerate foreign investment approvals, planning to cut onboarding times from six months to as little as 30–60 days. The policy change could provide medium-term support, but immediate sentiment remains fragile amid external headwinds.
Mixed tone in Southeast Asia
Markets across Southeast Asia opened on a softer note, broadly tracking the regional downturn. Export-driven economies remain sensitive to China’s demand outlook and US policy uncertainty, while commodity-linked sectors show some resilience. Investors are balancing local fundamentals with a highly volatile global backdrop.
Global sentiment in focus
With US monetary policy and Chinese growth prospects continuing to dominate regional sentiment, Asian investors are expected to remain cautious through the trading day. Currency fluctuations, bond yields, and upcoming economic data releases will be closely monitored for further direction.
REFH – Newshub, 24 September 2025
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