Magnitude 6 Earthquake Hits Near Hokkaido, Japan Amid Geopolitical Tensions

On Sunday, June 22, an earthquake hit the northern part of Japan amid Asian stock market changes due to geopolitical tensions. The German Research Centre for Geosciences confirmed a 6.0 magnitude quake. This occurred near Hokkaido’s coastline at 10 km (6.21 miles). However, there is no announcement on Tsunmani, which was a relief. Amid these, Japan’s stock market reacted soon after trading opened. The Nikkei 225 fell 0.22% and ended at 38,403.23. The broader Topix index dropped 0.75% to close at 2,771.26. Stocks of utility and infrastructure companies were among the biggest losers. Investors feared supply issues or possible safety checks after the quake.

Japan’s Inflation Rises to 16-Month High, Adds to Market Worries

New data showed that Japan’s core inflation hit 3.7% in May. This is the highest level since January 2023. It was slightly higher than the 3.6% that experts had expected. Prices of services and electricity went up the most. Analysts said rising inflation may delay any changes to interest rates. The Bank of Japan may stay cautious due to the weak yen. Some parts of the market reacted to this news. Real estate and retail stocks traded unevenly. Banks and other financial companies also stayed weak.

China Holds Loan Rates Steady, Asian Market Response Mixed

The People’s Bank of China left its main lending rates unchanged on Friday. The one-year rate stayed at 3.0%, and the five-year rate at 3.5%. Most investors expected this move, but some hoped for a rate cut. The CSI 300 index in China ended flat at 3,846.64. Analysts said weak demand and slow policy changes remain concerns. In Hong Kong, the mood was more upbeat. The Hang Seng Index rose 1.26% to finish at 23,530. Moreover, buying tech and banking stocks helped the market recover. In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 fell 0.21% to 8,505.50. Mining and resource stocks slipped due to weak global prices.

South Korean Stocks Jump on Tech Optimism and Strong Exports

South Korea’s markets had a strong day on Monday. The Kospi index rose 1.48% to 3,021.84, its best in over three years. It was the first time since January 2021 that the Kospi crossed 3,000. The Kosdaq index also climbed 1.15% to 791.53. Shares of chipmakers and battery firms led the rally. Positive export signs and foreign investment boosted market confidence. Likewise, retail buying and strong global demand played a key role. Analysts said this helped balance concerns from other regions.

Middle East Tensions Weigh on Global Market Sentiment

Tensions in the Middle East added to investor caution. U.S. President Donald Trump is reviewing plans to support Israel. This comes after reported attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. White House officials said a final decision could come in two weeks. Many airlines are avoiding Iranian airspace due to safety concerns. This shift in flight paths is affecting trade and shipping. India’s markets, however, moved higher during the day. The Nifty 50 and Sensex both rose more than 1% in intraday trade. Energy and auto stocks led the gains on local buying strength.