Asian Markets Mixed Amid Japan Election Talk, Iran Tariff Impact

Asian markets showed mixed performance Wednesday as Tokyo shares hit a record high on speculation about a snap election in Japan. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's approval ratings stand at 70 per cent, but her ruling bloc holds only a slim majority in parliament's lower house, limiting her ability to push through ambitious policies. The yen slumped to its lowest value since July 2024, while Taipei, Wellington, and Jakarta posted minor gains. Shanghai rose one per cent and Hong Kong climbed 0.7 per cent after China announced 2025 trade reached a "new historical high". Oil prices steadied after a surge triggered by US President Donald Trump's announcement of steep tariffs on anyone trading with Iran, which could restrict crude supplies. Iran accounts for three per cent of global oil production. In the US, December's consumer price index rose 2.7 per cent, matching expectations and keeping Federal Reserve rate cuts for 2026 viable. However, US equities fell as traders await a possible Supreme Court ruling Wednesday on the legality of Trump's sweeping tariffs. Markets are also watching Fed independence concerns amid Trump's push for lower rates. With inflation contained and oil volatility continuing, how should Nigerian investors position their portfolios between regional Asian opportunities and commodity exposure?

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/01/14/asian-markets-mixed-tokyo-up-on-election-speculation/