Asian markets dip as investors weigh tech earnings, Gulf tensions

Asian markets faced a challenging start on Thursday, as investors weighed the results of tech earnings and tensions in the Gulf. The Nikkei stock index in Japan slipped 0.4%, while Korean shares declined more than 1%. The MSCI's Asia-Pacific index, excluding Japan, fell 0.2%, marking a fourth consecutive weekly decline.

Despite some optimism surrounding tech earnings, concerns over AI and geopolitical instability in the Gulf proved to be a significant hurdle for Asian stocks. US stock futures, the S&P 500 e-minis, also experienced a slight decline of 0.4%, closing at 7,765.8.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq managed to lead Wall Street to a higher close, buoyed by impressive earnings reports from major players. Meta Platforms reported better-than-expected revenue, while AI server maker Super Micro forecasted stronger-than-anticipated revenue and profit margins. However, Meta's decision to issue non-voting Class C common stock has reignited discussions about its AI spending.

Analysts suggest that investors are still grappling with the latest earnings results and are not yet fully prepared to tackle the upcoming Federal Reserve decision, geopolitical uncertainties, and the US mid-term elections. The yield on 10-year Treasury notes decreased by 4.2 basis points to 5.1065%, while the yield on 30-year notes hit a one-week low of 5.3968%.

Meanwhile, Brent crude oil prices rose by 1.1% to $110.03 a barrel, nearing a five-month high. The U.S. recently ordered its diplomats to leave Saudi Arabia following Houthi strikes. Reports indicate that the U.S. and Israeli militaries have developed plans for potential attacks on Iran following the U.S. midterm elections, scheduled for November 3.

Gold prices dipped slightly to $4,115.5 per ounce, while Bitcoin experienced a 0.4% decrease, settling at $84,284.05. Ether also saw a 0.6% decline, closing at $2,476.34.