Asian stocks dipped in early trading as caution prevailed ahead of critical Chinese economic data. Investors remained on edge, speculating on how the numbers could shape sentiment around the region’s growth trajectory. Concerns over weakening demand and lingering deflationary pressures in China added to the subdued mood in the markets.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index fell, mirroring broader losses in regional benchmarks, while Japanese stocks saw mild declines as the yen edged higher against the dollar. Technology shares bore the brunt of the selloff, with traders wary of potential ripple effects from global rate uncertainty and slowing consumer activity in key markets.
Markets await China’s December industrial output and retail sales figures, expected to shed light on whether Beijing’s recent stimulus efforts have sparked a recovery. The data’s implications could be significant for commodities and export-heavy economies tied closely to Chinese demand.
