Hang Seng Index: Tech, Property Stocks Weigh as Trade Jitters Linger

In contrast, Australia’s ASX 200 bucked the broader market trend, rising 0.15%. Banking and tech stocks contributed to the morning gains, offsetting losses across mining, gold, and oil-related stocks.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia advanced 0.63%, while ANZ (ANZ) and National Australia Bank (NAB) rose 1.02% and 1%, respectively.

Australia’s unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.1% in April despite a 59.5k jump in full employment, reflecting a tight labor market. Still, the data failed to curb expectations of multiple RBA rate cuts. Shane Oliver, Head of Investment Strategy and Chief Economist at AMP, remarked:

“The overall money market post the jobs data has priced in a 96% probability of a 0.25% RBA rate cut on Tuesday with three 0.25% rate cuts priced in by year end.”

Outlook: Watching Trade and Beijing Stimulus

Markets remain highly sensitive to US-China trade developments. Progress toward a trade deal may lift risk sentiment and ease flows into safe-haven assets, while setbacks could trigger renewed risk aversion.

Investors are also eyeing Beijing for potential stimulus measures. Any new announcements may cushion the impact of tariffs and support demand for Hong Kong and Mainland-listed stocks.

Traders should remain alert and responsive to headlines on trade and central bank signals.

Stay ahead of the headlines here—follow our live market coverage on US-China trade talks.