Asian markets opened the week on a cautious note, with South Korean stocks leading declines amid political uncertainty. The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) fell 1.7% as investors reacted to the recent martial law declaration by President Yoon Suk Yeol, which was swiftly rescinded by parliament.
Despite the political turmoil, broader market sentiment remained cautiously optimistic. U.S. November payroll data showed a modest recovery, reinforcing expectations of a potential rate cut by the Federal Reserve at its upcoming meeting. Major central banks, including the European Central Bank and the Bank of Canada, are also anticipated to discuss lowering borrowing costs in their meetings this week.
