Asian markets trade mostly lower in early deals on Tuesday

20 Jan 2026 Evaluate
Asian markets traded mostly lower in early deals on Tuesday, saddled by the risk aversion in the market with trade uncertainties after renewed US tariff threats against Europe. Market sentiments dulled after China’s economy reported reduced momentum in Q4 2025, growing by 4.5% YoY and marking the slowest pace in three years, reflecting persistently weak domestic demand despite ongoing policy support from Beijing. Japan’s Nikkei plunged, extending losing streak to fourth straight session amidst domestic political uncertainty and rising Japanese bond yields. Weakness in export-oriented business and reduced foreign investments with firmer local currency yen also pressured the index.

Nikkei 225 tumble by 627.57 points or 1.17% to 52,956.00, Hang Seng lower by 11.78 points 0.04% to 26,552.12, Taiwan weighted curtailed by 13.76 points or 0.04% to 31,625.53, Shanghai Composite dipped by 12.38 points or 0.30% to 4,101.62, and FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI index slipped by 10.21 points or 0.60% to 1,702.12.

On the flip side, Straits Times up by 7.49 points or 0.15% to 4,842.37, KOSPI Index increased by 13.30 points or 0.27% to 4,917.96, and Jakarta Composite widened by 23.69 points 0.26% to 9,157.56.

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