Asian markets traded mostly lower in early deals on Tuesday, dulled by the risk aversion ahead of the US Fed's upcoming interest rate decision tomorrow. Investors also side-lined amidst ongoing economic uncertainties in China and the absence of detailed policy measures from Beijing. China’s retail sales growth in November slowed more than expected, reflecting weaker consumption, while new home prices dropped for the 17th consecutive month, indicating continued challenges in the property sector. Japan’s Nikkei also retreated earlier sessional gains amidst speculations that the Bank of Japan may hold off on raising rates this month.
Nikkei 225 down by 53.86 points 0.14% to 39,403.63, Straits Times slipped by 19.27 points 0.50% to 3,801.76, Hang Seng declined by 76.93 points 0.39% to 19,718.56, Jakarta Composite narrowed by 45.01 points or 0.62% to 7,213.62, KOSPI Index curtailed by 29.48 points or 1.18% to 2,459.49, Shanghai Composite shrunk by 19.44 points or 0.58% to 3,366.89 and FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI dipped by 5.11 points or 0.32% to 1,601.74.
On the flip side, Taiwan Weighted up by 28.11 points or 0.12% to 23,068.01.