Caution on Asian Stocks as Key Central Banks Convene

Asian stocks began the week with cautious trading amid expectations of an easing cycle in the U.S., with focus on the size of the rate cut. Central banks in Japan and the UK are also meeting, while geopolitical tensions heighten. Economic data from China disappoints, reinforcing the need for stimulus.

Asian stocks started the week on a cautious note, with investors closely watching an expected easing cycle in the United States. The main question remains the size of the rate cut, as markets are divided over the potential for an outsized move.

Central banks in Japan and the UK will also hold meetings this week, with both expected to maintain current rates. A busy data schedule includes U.S. retail sales and industrial production figures. Geopolitics add another layer of uncertainty, highlighted by a recent assassination attempt against Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, according to the FBI.

Weekend holidays in China, Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia resulted in thin trading conditions. MSCI's index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was nearly flat after last week's gains. Disappointing economic data from China over the weekend, including a slowdown in industrial output growth, points to the possibility of additional stimulus measures.

(With inputs from agencies.)