Asian Markets Mixed as US Tech Rebound Lifts Sentiment

March 20, 2026

Global Markets

Reuters

Asian equities displayed mixed performance today, with Japan's Nikkei 225 rising 0.5% while Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index fell 0.3%. An overnight rebound in US technology stocks provided some uplift to regional sentiment, but investors remain cautious about the broader global economic outlook. Trading volumes were moderate across most major bourses.

Asian equity markets presented a mixed picture today. Japan's Nikkei 225 index rose 0.5%, buoyed by strong performances in technology and exporter stocks. In contrast, Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index declined 0.3%, primarily impacted by weaker-than-expected economic data from China. Overnight, the US Nasdaq Composite gained 1.2%, with a rebound in tech giants like Nvidia and Apple providing some support to regional technology counters. Singapore's Straits Times Index edged up 0.1%. Investors are currently weighing US economic data, the Federal Reserve's interest rate trajectory, and geopolitical risks. Despite the US tech rebound, lingering concerns about slowing global economic growth continue to foster a cautious market sentiment. Regional trading volumes remained moderate.

View Source: Reuters

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