? Market Overview

Most Asian stocks fell on Thursday amid concerns over high U.S. interest rates and increased trade tariffs.
Hong Kong led regional losses as the AI-driven rally slowed.
U.S. stock index futures dipped after President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductors.

? Impact on Asian Markets
? Japan

Nikkei 225: -1.7% | TOPIX: -1.5%
Automakers hit hard:

Toyota (NYSE:TM) & Honda (TYO:7267) fell over 2% due to dependence on U.S. sales.

? South Korea

KOSPI: -0.6% | Pulled back after last week’s strong rally.

? Australia

ASX 200: -1.3% | Commodity-exporters under pressure.
Employment data stronger than expected, boosting hawkish bets on the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), limiting rate cut prospects.

? Singapore

Straits Times Index: -0.1% | Minimal decline but cautious sentiment persists.

? Key Takeaways
? Trump’s tariff threats rattled Asian markets, hitting trade-sensitive sectors.? Japanese automakers suffered as they rely heavily on U.S. sales.? Hawkish central bank policies weighed on Australian stocks.? The AI-fueled rally in Hong Kong lost steam, adding to losses.