Latest news with #ASIAN
Malaysian Reserve
a day ago
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Asian shares edge up on Japan's post-election jump
ASIAN stocks posted a modest gain with Japanese markets staging a relief rally after Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said he would carry on as leader even after the ruling coalition lost its majority in the upper house election. The MSCI regional stock gauge advanced 0.1% after the S&P 500 index closed above 6,300 for the first time. The Nikkei-225 index in Japan jumped as much as 1.1%, before paring gains. The yen depreciated a touch after gaining as much as 1% Monday. Treasuries rose, with yields on the 10-year dipping for a fifth consecutive day to 4.37%. Stocks have surged from their slump in April as fund managers lean harder into the rally in risk assets with US stocks pushing to fresh highs, defying persistent trade and geopolitical tensions. The high-octane wager is that while President Donald Trump is threatening to disrupt the economic order anew, he will step back from the brink. That rally faces a key test this week as megacaps such as Tesla Inc. and Alphabet Inc. report earnings. 'Earnings season will move into full swing this week, and the guidance will be more important than usual,' said Matt Maley, chief market strategist at Miller Tabak. 'This guidance is going to have to create a very large increase in earnings estimates if the market is going to reach some of the targets that exist on Wall Street right now.' Investors also kept a close eye on tariff headlines Monday. Trump may issue more unilateral tariff letters before Aug. 1, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said. More trade deals may also be reached before the deadline, she added. Meanwhile, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will be the latest foreign leader eager to make a deal before the US-imposed Aug. 1 tariff deadline when he visits Trump in the Oval Office later Tuesday. Market participants are focused on the performance of Japanese markets as investors weigh policy uncertainty after the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's historic loss in Sunday's elections. With the election out of the way, 'the possibility of a 'sell Japan' trend, due to worries over extreme fiscal spending, has lessened,' supporting stock prices, said Hideyuki Ishiguro, chief strategist at Nomura Asset Management. However, uncertainty around the new political landscape is likely to cap gains, he said. Japanese government bonds are vulnerable to further selling following the elections, although the immediate reaction Tuesday was damped by a rally in global debt markets. Benchmark 10-year bonds fell only slightly as trading resumed in Tokyo, pushing yields up by 1.5 basis points. In the US, the second-quarter earnings season is off to a ripping start, with consumer strength powering resilient corporate profits. Yet after hitting a series of all-time highs, the S&P 500 is trading around 22 times expected 12-month profits. 'While stocks may be due for a breather, we believe the bull market remains intact,' said Ulrike Hoffmann-Burchardi at UBS Global Wealth Management. 'We maintain our June 2026 S&P 500 price target of 6,500, and recommend using volatility as an opportunity to phase into markets.' The S&P 500 hasn't posted a 1% up or down day since late June, and Mark Hackett at Nationwide notes that volatility gauges also remain 'suspiciously quiet.' 'This calm is unusual and may reflect both investor fatigue and institutional hesitation to fight the current trend,' he said. 'We're in a window where calm can quickly turn to complacency. While a break in either direction is possible, current positioning suggests we'd bet on a rally before a drop.' –BLOOMBERG
Malaysian Reserve
15-07-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Alibaba to Baidu lead surge in equity-linked bond sales in Asia
ASIAN sales of bonds that can be turned into shares have soared in 2025, heading toward multiyear highs, as interest rates remain elevated and rallying stocks create the right conditions for this corner of the market to thrive. Led by Chinese companies, firms in the region have sold more than $30 billion of convertible and exchangeable bonds this year, up from over $20 billion in the same period a year earlier, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Offerings denominated in US and Hong Kong dollars have been particularly popular. Concerns about inflation from US tariffs have kept Federal Reserve officials from cutting rates, making instruments such as convertibles that pay little, or even no interest, more attractive for borrowers. For investors, these hybrid securities offer a way to ride the recent rally in Chinese stocks — with limited downside. 'It's been an extraordinarily busy year and it will continue to be busy,' said Gautam Sareen, head of Asia Pacific equity linked and private capital markets at JPMorgan Chase & Co. 'Market conditions have never been healthier.' Demand has been so high for equity-linked securities that all of Asia's five largest issuances in this space didn't have to pay any interest. China's Baidu Inc., Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. and Ping An Insurance (Group) Co. of China Ltd. were among the biggest issuers of these hybrid instruments this year. Baidu raised $2 billion from the sale of notes exchangeable into shares of online-travel agent Group Ltd., while Alibaba sold HK$12 billion ($1.5 billion) of bonds that can be turned into shares of Alibaba Health Information Technology Ltd., following other issuers in taking advantage of the lower funding costs in the Hong Kong dollar compared to the greenback. Ping An raised almost HK$12 billion from its convertible. China's stock market 'felt quite solid right after Liberation Day and then rebounded very, very quickly,' said Brian Chau, co-head of equity-linked Asia at UBS Group AG. 'The APAC market is at a record strength.' Elsewhere, Grab Holdings Ltd. and MakeMyTrip Ltd. also had a big offerings, as did ailing carmaker Nissan Motor Co., which recently raised ¥200 billion ($1.4 billion) from one of Japan's biggest convertible bonds in years. In South Korea, LG Chem Ltd.'s $1 billion exchangeable bond in May revived a market that had dried up in the country in the wake of a 2023 short-selling ban that was only lifted few months ago. And although a flare-up of tensions on the geopolitical front or a negative shock for the global economy could shut the issuance window quickly, expectations remain high for offerings to keep flooding in. Saurabh Dinakar, head of Asia Pacific global capital markets at Morgan Stanley, said that DeepSeek's sudden emergence as an artificial-intelligence powerhouse and Chinese companies' low valuations helped kickstart the rally earlier this year, and the outlook remains bright. Investors now feel that valuations in China are 'at a bit of an inflection point and as a result they are wanting to get involved and engage in certain sectors,' Dinakar said. 'Assuming that we don't have a wobble from a geopolitical standpoint, our view is that the market will remain active for the balance of the year.' –BLOOMBERG
Focus Malaysia
14-07-2025
- Business
- Focus Malaysia
Asian markets mixed as trade war fears resurface
ASIAN markets were mixed last Friday, as investors digested Trump's surprise announcement of a 35% tariff on Canadian imports (effective 1 Aug) and hints at broader global tariff hikes—rekindling fears of a renewed trade war and a potential drag on global growth. Meanwhile, China and Hong Kong equities outperformed, buoyed by rising expectations of additional stimulus middling inflation data released last week. The Dow slipped 279 points to 44,371 after Trump imposed a 35% tariff on Canadian imports, stoking renewed trade war fears. Over the weekend, he escalated tensions with a 30% tariff on Mexican and EU goods (effective Aug 1), following earlier tariffs on South Korea, Japan (25%), and Brazil (50%). Markets remain on edge for further action against major US trading partners. This week, earnings from JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Citi, BlackRock, TSMC, ASML, Netflix, J&J, and PepsiCo will be closely watched. Meanwhile, a busy data week includes June CPI, PPI, retail sales and the Michigan consumer sentiment survey. Tracking tepid Wall St and regional markets coupled with renewed foreign outflows, KLCI eased 0.5-pt at 1,536.1 after rising as much as 6 pts intraday. Market sentiment remained resilient at 1.13 (vs 1.26 prior), supported by 3.37 bil shares traded worth RM2.30 bil. The KLCI remains range-bound within a triangle consolidation as investors assess the impact of fresh U.S. tariffs on key trading partners and potential AI chip curbs affecting Malaysia. In the near term, the KLCI is expected to remain in range bound consolidation mode as investors digest the implications of Trump having ratcheted up trade tariffs on key trading partners over the last two weeks. Sentiment remains cautious amid multiple headwinds, including: (i) Uncertainty over a more complex negotiation process with Washington to ease the 25% tariff by 1 Aug. (ii) Potential US restrictions on AI chip exports to Malaysia. (iii) Renewed foreign selling, reversing the RM335 mil net inflows seen over the prior two weeks. (iv) Domestic policy headwinds, such as upcoming fuel and power subsidy rationalisation, port tariff hikes, and the SST expansion in 2H25, which could weigh on consumer spending and corporate earnings visibility. —July 14, 2025 Main image: Reuters
India.com
10-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- India.com
Sneakers You Need Now: Top 4 Womens Picks to Shop this Amazon Prime Day
Sneakers are a girl's best friend when comfort meets style. From street-smart designs to sporty ease, check out these 4 picks that deserve a spot in your closet this Prime Day 12th to the 14th of July, is Amazon Prime Day with irresistible prices on stylish and cozy women's sneakers. From college campuses, daily chores, and a relaxed date, the appropriate sneakers can turn your day around. We have shortlisted four fashionable yet affordable sneakers that meet comfort, style, and strength for everyday use. Shop smart and strut in style—only during the Prime Day sale. 1. FASHION VICTIM 4058 Women's Sneaker Image Source- Order Now The FASHION VICTIM 4058 sneaker is for forward-thinking women who desire their sneakers to be seen. With its striking appearance, front lace-up, and super-soft fit, it's ideal for forward-thinking streetwear. Wear it with jeans, joggers, or skirts for that casual cool effect. Key Features: Forward-thinking lace-up style Soft inner lining Lightweight and supple Forward-thinking color hues Might be a little too big—try dropping down one size. 2. Campus Women Ogl-10 Sneakers Image Source- Order Now Campus Ogl-10 sneakers make great everyday companions. They are sporty, breathable, and cushioned enough to see you through the day—be it walking to school, errands, or hanging out with friends. The sneakers give a sophisticated and fashionable appearance for regular use. Key Features: Lightweight and sporty build Cushioning support on the sole Versatile white-colored design Good for extended wear Not very water-proof when it pours heavily. 3. Centrino Women Sneaker (9759) Image Source- Order Now Centrino's 9759 sneaker is about blending everyday fashion with comfort. With a cushioned insole and an easy lace-up design, it's designed for girls who require effortless styling and comfort throughout the day. Whether dressing up western outfit or athleisure, it adjusts to you. Key Features: Cushioned insole to provide extra comfort Easy lace-up design Long-lasting grip sole Easy everyday design The design could be too plain for experimental fashionistas. 4. ASIAN Women PARADISE-12 Casual Mid-Top Sneakers Image Source- Order Now Love some height with your footwear? The ASIAN Paradise-12 offers you a hip and functional mid-top look. With extra ankle support, playful styling, and airy construction, it's perfect for teens who want to break out of a crowd. Key Features: Mid-top design with front lace-up Extra ankle support Playful and stylish design Cushioning for comfort Not suitable for work or formal events. Amazon Prime Day (12th to 14th July) is your opportunity to step up your sneaker game without going crazy on the budget. Whether bold mid-tops or minimalist everyday wear, these 4 sneakers have something for every mood and personality. Whether a statement or chic everyday wear, there's a perfect fit here. Don't miss your opportunity to grab the best deals while they're available. Whether you adore the latest streetwear trend or simply need a good pair for casual wear, all of these sneakers are delivering in terms of comfort, quality, and appearance. Get the most out of Prime Day's great deals and pamper your feet with that fashionable new style. Fashionable sneakers don't have to be expensive—just hurry and get your favorite before the offer expires. Disclaimer: At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article.
Canada Standard
09-07-2025
- Business
- Canada Standard
Explainer: Where do things stand now as Trump prolongs tariff pause?
The delay adds yet another twist to Trump's original "90 deals in 90 days" promise -- so far yielding only two vague trade agreements with Britain and Vietnam. WASHINGTON, July 9 (Xinhua) -- With the 90-day suspension of sweeping U.S. reciprocal tariffs scheduled to expire Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order Monday to extend the pause till Aug. 1 while trade negotiations continue. Forbes described the move as the administration's "27th policy flip-flop" since April 2, dubbed "Liberation Day," when the White House launched its aggressive tariff campaign. The delay adds yet another twist to Trump's original "90 deals in 90 days" promise -- so far yielding only two vague trade agreements with Britain and Vietnam. So where do things stand now -- and could more deals be coming down the pipeline between Washington and its major trading partners? Here's the latest: ASIAN PARTNERS Alongside the tariff reprieve extension, Trump on Monday announced new 25 percent tariffs -- effective Aug. 1 -- on imports from 14 countries, including key allies Japan and South Korea. The announcement came with a warning: retaliatory measures will be met with a tit-for-tat response. Still, Washington left the door open for negotiation. In the previous seven round of bilateral talks, Japan had floated a package of concessions such as boosting imports of U.S. agricultural goods and liquefied natural gas in exchange for relief on automobile, which accounts for around 30 percent of Japan's exports to the United States. But Washington showed little flexibility. Trump described Japan as "very tough" and "very spoiled" last week, and threatened to raise tariffs to 30-35 percent unless Japan opens its market to U.S. rice and other products. Japan is reportedly pushing for an eighth round of talks, but political constraints ahead of its general election and a sluggish economy limit its room to make major compromises. South Korea has adopted a more multifaceted strategy. In addition to requesting a 90-day extension previously, Seoul had dispatched its top trade and security officials to Washington to engage in tariff discussions with wider cooperation, including exchange rate and defense issues, according to Reuters. South Korea's Trade Ministry said Tuesday it will accelerate talks with Washington to reach a "mutually beneficial" agreement before the new deadline. President Lee Jae Myung admitted, "It's still not clear to each side what the other wants." EUROPEAN ALLIES Despite Washington's last-minute decision to extend the pause, the EU is still aiming to strike with the United States a deal by midweek. "We're working towards July 9 as the point where we want to have an agreement in principle at a minimum with the U.S.," said Olof Gill, the Commission's trade spokesperson, on Monday. Over the past months, Washington and Brussels have remained divided over tariffs on cars and steel, agricultural market access and digital regulation. Brussels' firm stance on protecting its food standards and tech sovereignty has irritated Trump, who called the EU "very nasty" and threatened to raise tariffs on European exports to as high as 50 percent. As the largest trading partner of the United States, the bloc already faces a 10 percent baseline tariff, with autos at 25 percent and steel and aluminum at 50 percent. Should no agreement be reached by Aug. 1, EU exports may face a further tariff hike, as Trump has warned. The EU executive said that Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had a "good exchange" on trade with Trump on Sunday. But she also said: "What we are aiming at is an agreement in principle, because with such a volume, in 90 days, an agreement in detail is impossible ... That is also what the UK did." Meanwhile, EU countries remain split on strategy. Countries like Italy and Germany support a quick deal and are willing to make significant concessions in exchange for lower duties on strategic sectors, while France and Spain have so far taken a more confrontational approach, urging the Commission to adopt a tougher stance, according to media reports. NEIGHBORS The United States' neighboring countries appear to be faring better, thanks to tariff exemptions under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which covers goods primarily produced in North America. But the pain is still real. To continue trade talks with Trump, Canada recently scrapped a proposed 3 percent digital services tax targeting U.S. tech giants, a leavy Trump had slammed as "a blatant attack," after Trump called Canada "very nasty" and threatened to suspend trade talks if Canada imposes the tax. Referring to the repeal, the White House said last week that Prime Minister Mark Carney and Canada "caved" to Trump and the United States. According to Canada's Department of Finance, Trump and Carney are now aiming to finalize a trade deal by July 21. U.S. tariffs on Canadian metals -- a 50 percent levy on aluminum and 25 percent on steel -- as well as Canada's dairy supply management system could still return to the table. Mexico has weathered the storm more effectively. Roughly half of its exports to its northern neighbor already meet USMCA rules of origin, and that share is expected to rise to 85-90 percent as companies adapt. That is much higher than Canada's 38 percent in 2024. Mexico is also in talks with Washington over a quota system to allow a set volume of steel exports to enter at lower tariffs, Bloomberg reported on June 25. Additionally, Mexico is pushing for an early review of the USMCA, potentially by September, to secure longer-term trade certainty. However, the quota proposal has yet to materialize, and the early review could become a bargaining chip for Washington in further negotiations. While negotiations are clearly active, it remains far too early to predict any concrete deals. The Peterson Institute for International Economics estimated in February that tariffs would reduce U.S. GDP growth by around 0.25 percentage points.
