Asian Markets Mixed Amid Trade War Fears and Inflation Data: Nikkei 225 Rises 1.0%, Hang Seng Dips 0.1% on Thursday

Asian markets displayed mixed performance on Thursday, influenced by concerns over the ongoing trade war and a below-forecast US inflation reading. According to AFP, the US inflation data for February provided some relief, showing a slight slowdown. However, anxieties persist regarding President Trump's tariff policies and their potential impact on global trade. The Nikkei 225 in Tokyo rose by 1.0% to 37,173.82, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index fell by 0.1% to 23,587.34. Shanghai's Composite also saw a slight increase of 0.1% to 3,373.87. Market sentiment remains cautious as investors assess the potential implications of upcoming tariff deadlines, with West Texas Intermediate crude oil down 0.2% at $67.54 per barrel. The Ukraine crisis and potential sanctions against Russia also add to the global economic uncertainty.