Asia Markets Await Key Decisions Amid U.S. Tariff Developments

CNBC's live coverage monitors the Asia-Pacific markets as they prepare for a cautious opening. Investors are cautious ahead of the day’s trading, influenced by declines on Wall Street due to softer-than-expected economic indicators and new tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump announced plans to impose tariffs on semiconductors and chips, emphasizing their domestic production and stating that the new measures will be revealed within the upcoming week. In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 index futures indicate a slight decline, opening at 8,739 compared to the previous close of 8,770. Japan’s Nikkei 225 futures suggest an optimistic start, with contracts traded at 40,555 versus a close of 40,549. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng futures stand at 24,812, hinting at a weaker session relative to its last close of 24,902. Across the Pacific, major U.S. indices ended Tuesday lower. The S&P 500 dipped 0.49% to close at 6,299.19, while the Nasdaq Composite decreased by 0.65% to 20,916.55. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined by 61.90 points, or 0.14%, settling at 44,111.74. In an interview on CNBC's "Squawk Box," President Trump discussed upcoming tariff strategies and ...