Table of Contents:
Fluctuations in Asian markets
Asian financial markets have shown signs of instability due to growing concerns about the erratic economic recovery in China. The Hong Kong Hang Seng Index fell by 0.24%, closing at 20,041.42 points. This negative trend was mainly influenced by the technology, real estate and consumer sectors. Analysts have noticed an increase in cautious sentiment in view of the publication of China’s official PMI data for the month of December, expected tomorrow
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Economic and geopolitical pressures
An additional factor of pressure on the markets is represented by concerns about possible tariffs on Chinese goods, which could be imposed with the inauguration of the elected president of the United States, Donald Trump. The Shenzhen Composite Index fell by 0.32%, closing at 2008.49 points, while the Shanghai Composite closed in positive territory, with an increase of 0.21% to 3407.33 points. This scenario highlights how geopolitical tensions can influence market performance
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Inflation and European markets
In Europe, inflation in Spain for December 2024 is estimated at 2.8%, showing an increase compared to the previous month. This increase is mainly attributable to fuel prices and, to a lesser extent, to the leisure and culture sector. The Tokyo Stock Exchange closed the year with an increase of 19%, despite a negative final session caused by the decline in automotive and technology stocks. The Nikkei index fell by 0.96%, while the larger Topix index lost 0.60%. Investors remain cautious due to geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainties
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Situation in the United States
In the United States, stock markets start the day lower due to disappointing macroeconomic data and a rise in government bond yields. The United States trade deficit grew above expectations, with an increase of 4.7% in November, exceeding analysts’ forecasts. The Commerce Department reported a deficit of 102.86 billion dollars, against estimates of 101.2 billion. The increase is mainly due to an increase in imports, which reached 279.2 billion dollars. This scenario highlights the economic challenges the country is facing
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