New Delhi, 9 April (H.S.): Asian stock markets opened lower on Wednesday amid heightened investor concerns following the U.S. government’s decision to implement broad tariffs on trading partners, notably a steep 104% duty on China. Japan’s Nikkei index continued its losing streak, declining over 3.5%, while South Korea’s Kospi officially entered bear market territory, plummeting 20% from its July highs. The downturn in Japan was primarily driven by technology stocks, with significant losses recorded by Advantest (down 9%) and Tokyo Electron (down 4.85%).

The intensifying trade war and rising tariffs have sparked fears of a potential global recession, leading to increased market volatility and anxiety among investors. Consequently, speculations are growing that the Federal Reserve may need to expedite interest rate cuts, despite inflation concerns.

In the U.S., Wall Street faced another rough session, with the S&P 500 dropping 1.6%, nearing bear market territory. This slide brought it below the 5,000 mark for the first time in nearly a year, erasing earlier gains from a morning rally as optimism faded over the possibility of new tariff delays. Goldman Sachs strategists noted deteriorating liquidity in various markets, prompting closer observation of potential financial stress areas.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar