Asian stock markets retreated on Friday as optimism over trade developments and AI momentum cooled. However, most major indexes in the region still posted solid gains for the week.
Japan led regional performance this week following a new trade deal with the U.S., although mixed inflation data trimmed some of the upside. The Nikkei 225 slipped on Friday but remained positive for the week.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index also saw strong weekly performance, supported by earlier gains in tech stocks after upbeat earnings from Alphabet and speculation that Nvidia chips could re-enter the Hong Kong market.
Chinese stocks edged lower as investors awaited clarity from the postponed Politburo meeting. Meanwhile, markets in South Korea and Singapore posted modest gains, while Australia fell on profit-taking.
Despite Friday’s pullback, Asian equities ended the week on a strong note, reflecting broader investor confidence in corporate earnings and global economic policy direction.