Market Movements Amid Economic Indicators

Following the release of Japan's inflation data for June and amid swirling rumors of the United States considering a hefty 93.5% tariff on Chinese battery components, major stock markets in the Asia-Pacific region showed mixed reactions during Friday's afternoon session. This development has heightened concerns over a potential escalation in the ongoing trade tensions between Washington and Beijing.

Regional Stock Market Performances

Japan's Nikkei 225 experienced a slight decline of 0.2%, while South Korea's Kospi dropped by 0.35%. In contrast, Australia's S&P/ASX 500 saw a significant jump of 1.57%, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng gained 0.73%. Meanwhile, on the Chinese mainland, the Shanghai Composite added a modest 0.18%, with the Shenzhen Composite remaining unchanged.

Currency Exchange Rates

The dollar remained stable against the yen, trading at ¥148.69150.