What is the main goal of the US-China trade talks?

the primary objective is to reduce trade tensions and establish a more balanced and equitable trade relationship between the two countries.

What are the key issues being discussed in the US-China trade negotiations?

Key issues include intellectual property protection, market access for U.S. companies in China, and the reduction of trade imbalances.

How will the US-China trade agreement affect consumers?

The impact on consumers will depend on the specific terms of the agreement, but a reduction in tariffs could lead to lower prices for some goods.

What is the significance of the 'Geneva consensus' in the US-China trade talks?

The 'Geneva consensus' refers to a previous agreement between the two countries that serves as a foundation for the current negotiations.

How often do US and China engage in trade talks?

The frequency of trade talks varies depending on the state of the relationship and the urgency of the issues being addressed.

Why are US-China trade relations critically important for the global economy?

As the US and China are the two largest economies in the world, their trade relationship has a significant impact on global growth and stability.

What role does the World Trade Organization (WTO) play in US-China trade?

The WTO provides a framework for resolving trade disputes and ensuring that trade practices are consistent with international rules.

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Business

Asia stock markets today: live updates

by Priya Shah – Business Editor August 8, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Japan’s Nikkei Surges 2%, Topix Hits Record Amid Tech Rally

SoftBank Shares Soar on Strong Earnings

Japanese stocks rallied on Friday, driven by a significant climb in the Nikkei 225, which jumped over 2%. The broader Topix index also saw substantial gains, surpassing the 3,000 threshold for the first time and reaching an all-time high. Technology, consumer cyclicals, and real estate sectors were at the forefront of this advance.

Nikkei and Topix Reach New Milestones

The benchmark Nikkei 225 index advanced by 2.22% to 41,968.68 by late morning local time. Concurrently, the Topix index climbed 1.65% to 3,037.11. Earlier in the session, the Topix had set a new all-time record, breaking the significant 3,000-point mark.

Illustrative stock chart icon.

The Nikkei’s performance was bolstered by strong showings in technology firms, consumer discretionary stocks, and the real estate sector.

SoftBank Group Shares Hit Record High After Earnings Beat

Shares of SoftBank Group experienced a dramatic surge, climbing 13% to achieve a new record high on Friday. This sharp increase followed the company’s announcement of a better-than-expected profit for the fiscal first quarter. This marks the Japanese investment firm’s fourth consecutive day of gains.

Illustrative stock chart icon.

SoftBank Group’s stock performance reflects positive investor reaction to its financial results. For further details on SoftBank’s earnings, one can refer to the full story [here](https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/08/softbank-group-shares-first-quarter-earnings-beat-estimates.html).

Asian Markets Show Mixed Performance

In contrast to Japan’s positive showing, Chinese and Hong Kong stocks opened lower on Friday. The Hang Seng Index in Hong Kong fell by 0.76%, while mainland China’s CSI 300 index dropped 0.25% in early trading.

Across the Asia-Pacific region, markets presented a mixed picture. As of early Friday trading, South Korea’s Kospi index had declined by 0.13%, while the Kosdaq saw a modest increase of 0.65%. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 benchmark was down 0.29%.

Earlier in the day, US futures showed an upward trend in early Asian trading hours.

Ahead of the market open, Japan’s Nikkei 225 futures indicated a higher start, with contracts in Chicago and Osaka trading above the previous day’s closing level. Conversely, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index futures pointed to a weaker opening, while Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 futures suggested a lower start for the Australian market.

Investor Sentiment Turns Cautious

Investor sentiment regarding stocks has seen a notable decline, reaching its lowest point since the market peak in February. According to the latest weekly survey by the American Association of Individual Investors, bearish sentiment among individual investors has significantly increased.

This shift in sentiment is often viewed as a contrarian indicator by market strategists. Sam Stovall, chief investment strategist at CFRA Research, noted that a bearish poll can be encouraging, as it may signal that retail investors have already exited the market, potentially creating opportunities for increased buying activity.

The S&P 500 recently saw its largest one-week percentage drop in over a year, indicating a broader market sentiment shift (CNBC, 2025).

August 8, 2025 0 comments

Business

India-U.S., chip tariffs, Toyota earnings

by Priya Shah – Business Editor August 7, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Global Markets Brace for Chip Tariff Shockwaves

Asia-Pacific Faces Mixed Open Amid Tariff Uncertainty

Global markets navigated a mixed opening session Thursday, with investors keenly observing the semiconductor sector following a bold tariff announcement from U.S. President Donald Trump. Early trading in Asia saw Japan’s Nikkei 225 index hold steady, while the broader Topix gained a modest 0.19%. South Korea’s Kospi dipped slightly, remaining unchanged.

Tech Stocks Under Scrutiny

The central focus for traders is the potential impact of U.S. President **Donald Trump**’s declaration to impose a staggering 100% duty on imported semiconductors and chips. This measure, however, includes an exemption for companies actively establishing or committing to manufacturing operations within the United States. This policy shift has ignited significant speculation across the tech landscape.

U.S. Futures Show Slight Gains

U.S. equity futures experienced a marginal uptick in early Asian trading hours, signaling a cautious start to the day’s session in North America. This modest movement suggests investors are weighing the implications of the proposed tariffs against other market factors.

Market Openings Signal Caution

In anticipation of the trading day, futures for Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index pointed to a softer opening. Similarly, Australian markets were poised for a weaker start, with the S&P/ASX 200 benchmark futures trading below their previous close. Japan’s Nikkei 225 futures also indicated a lower opening compared to its preceding session’s closing value.

Trump’s Tariff Ultimatum

President **Donald Trump** revealed late Wednesday his intention to implement a significant tariff, stating, “We’re going to be putting a very large tariff on chips and semiconductors.” He further elaborated on the exceptions, noting, “But the good news for companies like Apple is if you’re building in the United States or have committed to build, without question, committed to build in the United States, there will be no charge.” Following this announcement, Apple shares saw a notable surge of 3% in after-hours trading, building on a substantial 5% gain during regular market hours.

The broad S&P 500 index concluded Wednesday’s trading session higher, climbing 0.73% to close at 6,345.06. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite demonstrated stronger performance, jumping 1.21% to finish at 21,169.42. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also registered gains, adding 81.38 points, or 0.18%, to end the day at 44,193.12.

Apple shares experienced a significant upswing in recent trading.

August 7, 2025 0 comments

Business

Asia stock markets today: live updates

by Priya Shah – Business Editor July 29, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Asian Markets Brace for US-China Trade Talks as US Stocks Close Higher

Singapore – Investors in Asia are closely monitoring the upcoming resumption of US-China trade talks in Stockholm on Monday, a development that could influence market sentiment across the region. The discussions, aimed at addressing long-standing economic disputes, will be led by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier he Lifeng.

Futures for Hong Kong’s Hang seng Index are indicating a slightly stronger opening, trading at 25,396 compared to its previous close of 25,388.35. Japan’s Nikkei 225 is also poised for a higher start, with Chicago futures at 41,645 and Osaka futures at 41,410, against Friday’s closing figure of 41,456.23. In contrast, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 is expected to open lower, with futures at 8,626, down from its last close of 8,666.90.

Meanwhile, U.S. stock markets concluded Friday on a positive note, with all three major averages posting gains for the week. The S&P 500 finished the session 0.40% higher at 6,388.64.The Nasdaq Composite rose 0.24% to 21,108.32, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 208.01 points, or 0.47%,to settle at 44,901.92.

despite potential near-term market fluctuations, UBS Global Wealth Management advises investors against excessive concern. Ulrike Hoffmann-Burchardi, chief investment officer for the Americas and global head of equities, noted that while threats to Federal Reserve independence, resurgent trade tensions ahead of an August 1 deadline, and potential economic harm from tariffs could contribute to volatility, any market swings are expected to be temporary.

July 29, 2025 0 comments

Business

Asia stock markets today: live updates

by Priya Shah – Business Editor July 21, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Asia-Pacific Markets Show Mixed Opening Signals

Mixed Performance as Investors Eye China’s Rate Decision

Asian markets experienced a divided start to the trading week, with South Korea showing gains while Australia’s benchmark index held steady. Investors are closely anticipating crucial economic data from China later today.

South Korean Stocks Advance

The Kospi index in South Korea opened higher on Monday, rising by 0.45%. In contrast, the Kosdaq, which tracks smaller companies, remained unchanged in early trading. As of 8:10 a.m. Singapore time, trading activity reflected a cautious sentiment across the region.

Australian and Japanese Markets Flat or Closed

Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 benchmark traded flat, mirroring a subdued opening. Japanese markets were closed for the public holiday observance of Marine Day, contributing to the mixed regional picture.

US Futures Show Little Movement

U.S. stock futures experienced minimal changes in early Asian trading hours, suggesting a stable outlook for Wall Street ahead of its opening. This stability comes after a mixed finish for major U.S. indices on Friday.

Friday’s U.S. Market Recap

On Friday, U.S. markets saw a downturn in afternoon trading, with the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average ending in negative territory. Fears over escalating tariffs appear to have influenced investor sentiment, leading to a late sell-off.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average, comprising 30 large-cap stocks, fell by 142.30 points, closing at 44,342.19, a decline of 0.32%. The broader S&P 500 index saw a slight decrease of 0.01%, settling at 6,296.79. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite managed a modest gain, adding 0.05% to finish at 20,895.66.

Anticipation Builds for China’s Loan Prime Rate

Market participants are keenly awaiting the People’s Bank of China’s announcement on its one-year and five-year loan prime rates for July. This decision is expected to provide insights into China’s economic policy and growth trajectory. For context, China’s central bank last adjusted its benchmark lending rates in June, reflecting ongoing efforts to stimulate economic activity.

Hong Kong and Australia Futures Signal Opening Trends

Futures for Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index indicated a stronger opening, with the contract at 24,883 compared to the previous closing value of 24,825.66. Conversely, Australian S&P/ASX 200 futures pointed to a lower start, trading at 8,688 against its last close of 8,757.20.

July 21, 2025 0 comments

Business

Asia Stocks Today: Live Updates & Market News

by Priya Shah – Business Editor June 30, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Asia-Pacific Markets Mixed as China Data Fuels Stimulus Hopes – June 30, 2025

SEO Focus Keywords: Asia-Pacific markets, China manufacturing, Japan Nikkei, South Korea Kospi, global trade, stock market today, Wall Street gains, economic stimulus

Headline Crafted for Google Top Stories & Reader Engagement: Asia Stocks Waver as China’s Economic woes Spark Stimulus Bets

Asia-Pacific markets presented a mixed picture Monday as investors digested fresh economic data and monitored developments in global trade negotiations. While several key indices saw gains, concerns surrounding China’s manufacturing sector continue to weigh on sentiment.China’s manufacturing activity contracted for a third consecutive month in June, intensifying expectations for further economic stimulus from Beijing to counteract the impact of ongoing trade tensions with the U.S. [[source article]]. The CSI 300 index managed a modest rise of 0.17%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index dipped 0.51%.

Japan led the gains, with the Nikkei 225 hitting a six-month high, climbing 1.53% and the Topix index advancing 0.86%. This follows strong gains from the previous session. [[source article]]

South Korea’s Kospi added 0.87% and the Kosdaq ticked up 0.67% despite choppy trading. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 saw a slight increase of 0.2%.

The positive momentum in Asia-Pacific follows a strong performance on Wall Street Friday, with the S&P 500 reaching a new four-month high and the Nasdaq Composite hitting an all-time high. U.S.equity futures continued to rise in early Asia hours. [[source article]]

Looking Ahead: Investors will be closely watching for further signals from Chinese policymakers regarding potential stimulus measures. The second half of the year begins with a cautious optimism, balanced by persistent global economic uncertainties.

Call to Action: stay informed on the latest market developments with world-today-news.com. Subscribe to our daily newsletter for expert analysis and breaking news.

June 30, 2025 0 comments

World

June 11, 2025: Live News Updates & Breaking News

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com June 11, 2025

written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

US-china Trade Talks Yield “Productive” Framework; Asia-Pacific Markets React

Table of Contents

US-china Trade Talks Yield “Productive” Framework; Asia-Pacific Markets React

Asia-Pacific markets experienced a mixed Wednesday, buoyed by news of progress in trade negotiations between the United States and China. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick characterized the discussions as “productive,” and representatives from both nations confirmed thay have established a framework for future trade relations.

The agreement builds upon the “Geneva consensus” previously reached by the two countries, according to statements from both Lutnick and Li Chenggang, China’s international trade representative. The talks, which extended into a second day in London, saw U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent depart, while lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer remained to continue negotiations.

Did you Know? …

the United States’ trade deficit with China reached $27.9 billion in April 2025, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, highlighting the ongoing importance of these trade negotiations.

Market Performance Across Asia-Pacific

Mainland China’s CSI 300 index saw a modest increase of 0.13% at the start of the day, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index climbed 0.5%. Japan’s Nikkei 225 also edged up by 0.32%, while the broader Topix index remained relatively stable. In South Korea, the Kospi index rose by 0.41%, with the small-cap Kosdaq showing stronger gains of 1.34%.

Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 continued its upward trajectory, increasing by 0.28% and surpassing its previous record-high close. This positive momentum reflects investor confidence in the Australian market,despite global economic uncertainties.

US Stock Futures and Overnight Performance

U.S. stock futures remained near the flatline in early Asian trading hours, as investors awaited further details on the trade discussions and the release of the U.S. consumer inflation report for may. The report, released later in the day, showed a 0.3% increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), slightly below expectations according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Overnight in the U.S., all three major benchmarks experienced gains, fueled by optimism surrounding the potential for a positive resolution to the trade talks. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 105.11 points (0.25%), closing at 42,866.87. The S&P 500 increased by 0.55% to finish at 6,038.81, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 0.63%, settling at 19,714.99. This marked the third consecutive positive session for both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite.

Key Figures in US-China Trade Talks

Official	Title	Role in Negotiations
Howard Lutnick	U.S. Commerce Secretary	Lead negotiator, described talks as “productive”
Li Chenggang	China’s International Trade Representative	Confirmed agreement on trade framework
Scott Bessent	U.S. Treasury Secretary	Participated in initial talks
Jamieson Greer	U.S. Trade Representative	Continued negotiations in London

Implications for Global Trade

The progress in US-China trade talks offers a glimmer of hope for stability in the global economy. The ongoing trade tensions between the two economic superpowers have created uncertainty and volatility in markets worldwide. A comprehensive and lasting agreement could help to alleviate these concerns and foster greater economic cooperation.

However, challenges remain. The details of the “framework” agreement have not been fully disclosed, and it is indeed unclear whether it addresses all of the key issues in dispute. Further negotiations will be necesary to translate the framework into a concrete and enforceable agreement.

What are the potential long-term effects of this trade agreement on global supply chains?

How will this agreement impact specific industries in the US and China?

The Evolution of US-China Trade Relations

Trade relations between the United States and China have undergone significant transformations over the past few decades. From initial periods of limited engagement to the establishment of normalized trade relations in 1979, the economic ties between the two countries have deepened considerably. China’s accession to the World Trade Institution (WTO) in 2001 further accelerated this process, leading to a surge in bilateral trade and investment.

Though, in recent years, trade tensions have escalated, driven by concerns over issues such as intellectual property theft, trade imbalances, and market access barriers. The imposition of tariffs and other trade restrictions has created significant disruptions to global supply chains and heightened uncertainty for businesses. The current negotiations represent an effort to de-escalate these tensions and establish a more stable and predictable framework for trade relations.

Frequently Asked Questions About US-China Trade

What is the main goal of the US-China trade talks?: The primary objective is to reduce trade tensions and establish a more balanced and equitable trade relationship between the two countries.
What are the key issues being discussed in the US-China trade negotiations?: Key issues include intellectual property protection, market access for U.S. companies in China, and the reduction of trade imbalances.
How will the US-China trade agreement affect consumers?: The impact on consumers will depend on the specific terms of the agreement, but a reduction in tariffs could lead to lower prices for some goods.
What is the significance of the “Geneva consensus” in the US-China trade talks?: The “Geneva consensus” refers to a previous agreement between the two countries that serves as a foundation for the current negotiations.
How often do US and china engage in trade talks?: The frequency of trade talks varies depending on the state of the relationship and the urgency of the issues being addressed.
Why are US-China trade relations vital for the global economy?: Because the US and China are the two largest economies in the world, their trade relationship has a significant impact on global growth and stability.
What role does the World Trade Organization (WTO) play in US-China trade?: the WTO provides a framework for resolving trade disputes and ensuring that trade practices are consistent with international rules.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about US-China trade relations and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. Consult with a qualified professional before making any financial decisions.

Stay informed! Share this article and join the conversation in the comments below. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on global trade and economic news.

June 11, 2025 0 comments

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