Asian Equity Markets Drop After Trump Reignites Tariff Row

Core Viewpoint - The recent escalation in the US-China trade war, marked by President Trump's threat to impose 100 percent tariffs on Chinese goods, has led to significant declines in Asian markets, although a more conciliatory tone from Trump provided some support to investors [1][2][5]. Market Reactions - Asian markets experienced substantial losses, with Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index down 2.2 percent and Shanghai's Composite down 1.4 percent [5][8]. - Wall Street also reacted negatively, with the Nasdaq losing over three percent [3]. - US futures saw a rebound of more than one percent following Trump's later comments [6]. Tariff Details - Trump announced an additional 100 percent tariff on Chinese goods, effective November 1, in response to China's export restrictions on rare earth minerals [2]. - Current US tariffs on Chinese products stand at 30 percent, while China's retaliatory tariffs are at 10 percent [3]. Diplomatic Context - Trump's comments included a more positive note towards Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating that the US wants to help China, which somewhat eased market fears [4]. - The Chinese Ministry of Commerce criticized the US for its "double standards" and stated that high tariffs are not the right approach to engage with China [4]. Economic Indicators - Gold prices reached a record high of $4,060, indicating a flight to safe-haven assets amid market turmoil [6]. - Oil prices rebounded after a decline, with West Texas Intermediate up 1.7 percent at $59.92 per barrel [9].