Trade Talks and Market Reactions

As the United States and China commenced their latest round of trade negotiations in Stockholm, major stock market indexes in the Asia-Pacific region showed mixed reactions. The discussions come at a critical time, with South Korean Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol proposing a commerce deal aimed at preventing the US from imposing a 25% tariff on South Korean goods.

Market Performance Overview

Japan's Nikkei 225 experienced a significant drop, losing 1.01% or 413 points, as the US dollar weakened against the yen. Conversely, South Korea's Kospi saw a modest gain of 0.49%. Meanwhile, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 remained unchanged, and China's Shanghai Composite and Shenzhen Composite showed no movement. Hong Kong's Hang Seng, however, decreased by 1.07% or 273 points.