Tech earnings headline as China‑US talks close, markets stay poised for shifts
Asian Markets Stalled as China‑USA Trade Talks Extend
The Asian trading session on Wednesday remained mixed as investors watched the latest negotiations between Washington and Beijing, while tech earnings and a pivotal Federal Reserve meeting kept markets wide‑open.
China‑U.S. Trade Truce on the Horizon
- Following agreements with the EU and Japan, the two‑day Stockholm talks ended without a definitive settlement.
- US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said President Donald Trump would have the final call on any 90‑day extension.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the tone as “very constructive.”
- Market analysts believe the moratorium will be extended, though uncertainty lingers for contracts due by 12 August.
Asian Equity Snapshot
- Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 remained flat at 40,682.14.
- Hong Kong, Singapore and Manila experienced modest declines.
- Shanghai, Sydney, Seoul, Wellington, Taipei and Jakarta displayed gains.
Brazil and India Await Deal
Brazil faces a looming 50 % tariff, while India could see a 20‑25 % rate according to the president’s brief remarks.
Tech Titans Await Earnings
- Meta and Microsoft will release results on Wednesday.
- Amazon and Apple are slated for Thursday.
- Analysts anticipate mega‑cap names to blaze the season in light of tariff pressure and AI investments.
Federal Reserve Expected to Hold Steady
Investors note a possible hint of a September rate cut following softer labour‑market data.
Oil Prices Steady After Trump’s Sanctions Warning
- West Texas Intermediate and Brent North Sea Crude rose slightly.
- Trump reiterated sanctions on Russia unless a truce with Ukraine is reached.
Key Market Figures (0230 GMT)
- Euro/dollar: ↑ $1.1567
- Pound/dollar: ↑ $1.3363
- Dollar/yen: ↓ 148.06 yen
- West Texas Intermediate: ↑ $69.25 per barrel
- Brent North Sea Crude: ↑ $72.68 per barrel
