Asia-Pacific equity markets closed Thursday’s session on a mixed note as investors assessed the implications of the United States Federal Reserve’s decision to raise interest rates.
The Fed announced on Wednesday an increase in its benchmark lending rate. The federal funds rate was raised by 25 basis points, moving to a target range of 3.75% to 4.00%, with at least one further hike expected before year-end.
“I see this as a relief operation for concerns about the Fed’s credibility,” said Charu Chanana, Chief Investment Strategist at Saxo Markets. “Kevin Warsh has reinforced the Fed’s credentials in the fight against inflation, which has been reflected in dollar strength, while longer-dated Treasury yields have not risen in a disorderly fashion,” she added.
Against this backdrop, South Korea’s Kospi index edged down 0.04% on the session, dragged lower by declines in SK Hynix, which fell 0.97%, and Samsung, which lost 0.59% — the two heaviest-weighted stocks in the benchmark.
Japan’s Topix advanced 0.80%, while the Nikkei 225 also closed higher, gaining 0.53%. In China, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng fell 0.65% in late trade, while the Shanghai Composite retreated 0.41%.
“The market impact of the decision was limited, as it was widely anticipated. Investor sentiment remained relatively subdued,” said Lee Kyoung-min, an analyst at Daishin Securities, as quoted by the Yonhap news agency.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/2026/09/17/mercados/mercados-mercados/pracas-asiaticas-com-sessao-mista-ainda-a-digerir-subida-de-juros-nos-eua/
