Asian markets traded mixed in early hours on Thursday, July 3, with cautious optimism seen in select indices. Investors continued to monitor U.S. economic signals and upcoming trade policy deadlines.
Early Gift Nifty indications suggested a flat to mildly positive start for the Indian market, with the index pointing about 29 points higher at 8:25 AM. This followed a slightly down finish in the previous session as investors weighed weak Chinese services data and U.S. policy signals.
Regionally, Shenzhen rose 0.36%, Kospi gained 0.82%, and Taiwan advanced 0.74%, reflecting modest gains. Meanwhile, Nikkei edged down 0.08%, Hang Seng slipped 1.18%, and Shanghai was down 0.13%, highlighting the uneven sentiment.
Markets are bracing for the crucial U.S. Non-Farm Payrolls data due later today, which could influence Federal Reserve policy expectations. The July 9 deadline for potential U.S. tariffs also looms over global trade outlook.
After Wednesday’s muted session, Indian equities are expected to open cautiously optimistic today, tracking global cues and corporate updates like Nykaa’s share sale and solid Q1 earnings projections.
