Asian equities broadly declined today, influenced by concerns over interest rate hikes following strong US jobs data. Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index fell 0.8%, and Singapore's Straits Times Index dropped 0.5%, dampening regional sentiment.
Asian equities generally displayed cautious sentiment today (February 6), primarily influenced by stronger-than-expected US jobs data released recently. The data fueled market concerns that the Federal Reserve might maintain higher interest rates for longer, thus dampening risk appetite. Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index fell 0.8% to close at 15,620 points, while Singapore's Straits Times Index also dropped 0.5% to 3,180 points. Japan's Nikkei 225 similarly closed down 0.3%. This regional negative sentiment also spilled over into the Malaysian market, contributing to the FBM KLCI's marginal decline. Investors are now closely watching upcoming US inflation data next week for further clues on the Fed's future policy path.
Share: