US stocks retreated, dragged down by tech stocks

The Nikkei dropped 1.30%, ending a two-day winning streak, as a stronger yen negatively impacted Japan's export-driven industries. Investor sentiment was further dampened by uncertainty surrounding trade negotiations with the US. Reports suggest Japan may offer to increase imports of soybeans and rice as part of the ongoing discussions. Meanwhile, the Shanghai Composite rose 0.45%, recovering from previous losses after the People’s Bank of China kept key lending rates steady, signaling a focus on stabilising the yuan during a period of economic uncertainty. Investors remained wary due to escalating US-China trade tensions, with no progress reported toward direct negotiations. Despite this, mainland Chinese markets have gradually rebounded since the onset of retaliatory tariffs earlier in the month, supported by state-backed buying from domestic institutions.

European stock exchanges remained closed on Monday in observance of Easter Monday, following a decline on Thursday. Local markets were also closed for the same holiday.

US stocks slumped on Monday after President Trump stepped up his criticism of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, raising concerns about the central bank's independence and unsettling investors. Both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq fell over 3%, driven by steep losses in major tech stocks. Persistent global trade tensions, particularly with China, also weighed on investor confidence as negotiations appeared stalled. With earnings season underway, upcoming reports from major firms like Alphabet, Tesla, IBM, and Boeing are expected to be closely watched.

Brent crude oil fell 2.50% to $66.30 per barrel as easing US-Iran tensions opened the door for more Iranian oil to enter the market. Talks between the two nations reportedly made substantial progress, with a framework for a potential nuclear deal being discussed. This came after new US sanctions were imposed on a Chinese refinery accused of processing Iranian oil. Meanwhile, concerns about weaker global demand due to US tariffs added to market pressure. Gold surged over 2.50% to a record high above $3 420 per ounce as investors sought safe havens amid mounting uncertainty. The US dollar slid to a three-year low following Trump’s calls for aggressive Fed rate cuts and rumours of a possible move to oust Powell, stoking fears of political interference in monetary policy.