Market Review April 2026
Risk assets corrected sharply amid escalating Middle East war when the US and Israel launched unilateral pre-emptive strikes on Iran on February 28. In retaliation, Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz through which about 20% of crude oil and LNG exports from the Gulf pass through, resulting
Market Review March 2026
Risk assets in most markets continued to move higher, albeit cautiously and unevenly. US tariff news took centre stage again during the month. On 20 February, the US Supreme Court came out with its decision on Trump’s emergency tariffs, ruling them as illegal. The markets rallied following
Market Review February 2026
Risk assets started the year on a positive note, heading higher with volatility amid geopolitical tensions. The World Index gained 2.19% in January. The MSCI Far East Ex. Japan index outperformed, gaining 10.96%, driven by North Asia markets, in particular Korea and Taiwan markets. Within the Asia
Market Review January 2026
Risk assets continued to head higher going into the final month of the year as Fed reduced interest rate by 25 bps in December. The World Index gained 0.73% in December. The MSCI Far East Ex. Japan index recovered, gaining 3.24%, driven by North Asia markets, in
Market Review December 2025
Risk assets trading volatility heightened in November on fluctuating probability of Fed decision to reduce interest rate in the upcoming meeting in December. The World Index gained 0.18% in November. The MSCI Far East Ex. Japan index corrected, declining 3.68%, on profit taking in North Asia markets