📈 Asian Markets Retreat Following Tech Sell-off

Asian equities saw a sharp pullback on Friday as investors reacted to rising costs in the technology sector and significant profit-taking after a record-breaking quarter. • Market Performance: The MSCI Asia-Pacific index fell 3.8%, narrowing its quarterly gains to 21%. Japan’s Nikkei slumped 5%, while South Korea’s KOSPI tumbled 8.2%, triggering a temporary trading halt. • Tech Sector Woes: Apple shares slid 6.1%, wiping US$ 250 Bn off its market value following price hikes for iPads and MacBooks due to surging component costs. Microsoft also announced price increases for Xbox consoles. • Commodities: Brent crude dropped 1.9% to US$ 73.9 per barrel as supply concerns eased. In precious metals, gold saw a 12% monthly decline to US$ 3,992 per ounce, while silver fell 25%. • Economic Context: Rising input costs and heavy capital expenditure needs are forcing investors to become more selective regarding AI exposure. Meanwhile, the Japanese Yen remains under pressure, hovering near a 40-year low at 161.73 against the USD. Market sentiment remains cautious as quarter-end rebalancing flows combine with concerns over sustained consumer spending momentum in the U.S. economy.