Asian equity markets displayed a mixed performance as investors navigated mounting uncertainty over the trajectory of U.S. interest rates and ongoing tariff discussions. While some markets gained ground bolstered by optimism over robust corporate earnings, others faced downward pressure amid fears of tighter monetary policy from the Federal Reserve. Tokyo’s Nikkei 225, for instance, advanced modestly, supported by strong technology sector earnings and hopes for stability in trade talks between the U.S. and Japan.

Conversely, Chinese stocks experienced a notable retreat, slipping from recent highs amid renewed concerns about slowing economic growth and regulatory pressures. The Hang Seng Index in Hong Kong mirrored this cautious sentiment, weighed down by volatility in the property and financial sectors. Investors remain wary as data releases and geopolitical developments continue to shape market sentiment throughout the…