Japan’s Nikkei 225 index traded sideways on Tuesday, unable to sustain momentum as investors weighed bargain-hunting opportunities against persistent macroeconomic headwinds.
The benchmark closed marginally higher, up 0.10% at 67,311.44, reflecting a session defined by indecision rather than directional conviction.
The lack of clear direction underscores the market’s sensitivity to external shocks.
Renewed concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, following recent escalations involving Iran and shipping routes, have kept risk sentiment fragile.
These geopolitical pressures are compounding domestic worries about inflation, which continue to weigh on consumer sentiment and corporate margins in Japan.
This hesitation follows a period of mixed signals across Asian equities.