Asian equity markets retreated on Thursday, driven by renewed selling pressure in technology stocks and escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The broad-based decline reflects growing investor caution as macroeconomic headwinds and regional instability converge to dampen risk appetite across the region.
The index has now fallen more than 20% from its recent highs, officially entering bear-market territory.
South Korea’s benchmark Kospi index extended its sharp downturn, having opened 4.46% lower on Wednesday.
The index has now fallen more than 20% from its recent highs, officially entering bear-market territory.
This marks a dramatic reversal for a market that was previously considered one of the strongest performers in Asia, with the steep drop following heavy losses in US technology shares.
Investor attention is now shifting to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC), which is set to release its quarterly earnings report.