Asian equity markets accelerated their decline on Wednesday, weighed down by a confluence of rising energy prices and growing investor anxiety over high valuations in the technology sector.
The sell-off was broad-based, with major indices in Japan and South Korea posting losses as traders reassessed risk amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Brent crude prices climbed following new reports of attacks in the region, adding to cost pressures for import-dependent economies.
The energy spike compounded existing worries about the sustainability of the tech rally, leading to renewed selling pressure in growth stocks.
Microsoft shares, a bellwether for the sector, faced headwinds as investors rotated away from high-multiple names.
The MSCI Asia Pacific index fell, reflecting the widespread nature of the selloff.