Asian Markets Decline as Fed’s Cautious Stance Creates Ripples
Asian stock markets plummeted due to the Federal Reserve’s slower pace of interest rate cuts for 2025. Technology stocks led the declines amid market concerns.
Key Highlights:
- NASKDAQ Decline: The NASDAQ Composite index plunged 3.6%, its most significant drop in months.
- Japanese Market Reaction: The Nikkei 225 index trimmed its losses, ending down 0.5%.
- Federal Reserve Outlook: A 25 basis-point cut was confirmed, but the Fed’s slower easing outlook affects growth-sensitive sectors.
Bank of Japan’s Impact:
The BOJ kept its rates steady at 0.25%. This cautious stance reflects Japan’s inflation and economic uncertainties, and despite no immediate hikes, it influences market confidence.