Stock markets in Asia were mixed on March 16, with investors continuing to worry about the crisis in the financial sector following the bankruptcy of two banks in the United States. The upcoming meeting of the Federal Reserve (Fed) was also on investors’ radar, with hopes that the Fed may decide to slow down the strength of the interest rate hike.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng fell 1.72% to close at 19,203.91, while South Korea’s Composite (KOSPI) rose 0.08% to close at 2,377.91 points.
Tokyo’s Nikkei closed down 0.80% at 27,010.61, as fears about the financial system spread to Europe due to Credit Suisse facing financial risks.
Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 closed down 1.46% at 6,965.50, led by energy, mining, and technology stocks. The All Ordinaries also closed lower at 7,152.70, down 1.52%.
China’s Shanghai Composite closed down 1.12% at 3,226.89.
In Thailand’s SET fluctuated in line with foreign markets affected by Credit Suisse’s financial problems, closing down 0.66% at 1,554.65 points.
Investors are keeping a close eye on market conditions and are ready to take any necessary measures to stabilize prices and the financial system.