US Inflation Softens Asia Markets

Asian Markets Surge on Soft US Inflation Data

Nikkei 225 climbed 1.5 % to 43,359.03, reaching a new intraday high of 42,999.71 the previous day. The rise follows a tepid inflation report that has lifted confidence in a potential rate cut by the US Federal Reserve.

US Equity Tickers — The S&P 500 and Nasdaq closed at fresh highs after data indicated that President Trump’s tariff barrage was having a less severe effect on prices. The optimistic outlook has suggested that Powell may lower rates next month.

• Trump’s Statement on Truth Social – “Jerome ‘Too Late’ Powell must NOW lower the rate.” He also threatened a “major lawsuit” over Fed building renovations.
• Stephen Innes, SPI Asset Management – “The recent inflation number confirms that September is shaping up to be the long-anticipated ‘insurance cut’.” The economy remains above the break‑even line.
• Katy Stoves, Mattioli Woods – “The gentle cooling of the economy will not justify a cut of interest rates to 1 % as President Trump is calling for.”

Energy and Corporate Highlights

Oil Prices edged lower after OPEC raised its 2026 demand forecast, signalling stronger global activity next year.

Corporate News – AI firm Perplexity offered Google $34.5 B for its Chrome browser, a deal that may have to be sold as part of antitrust proceedings. Intel rose 5.5 % after CEO Lip‑Bu Tan met with Trump, who praised the executive after previously calling for him to step down.

Key Market Figures (≈03:00 GMT)