Asian stocks fall after US losses, oil holds drop

Asian markets opened lower following a broader sell-off in US stock markets, while oil prices hovered around their lowest levels after a potential breakthrough in Iran's nuclear negotiations. The MSCI Asia Pacific index fell 0.5%, with South Korea's Kospi Index plunging more than 3%. The Nasdaq 100 lost 10% from its recent peak, entering a technical correction. In the US, chipmaker stocks continued a three-day decline of 12%, dragging down the Nasdaq 100.

Some investors looked to buy on dips, with US stock futures improving, although Japan was closed for a holiday. Meanwhile, China's central bank signaled it would encourage financial institutions to use stock-support tools more effectively, aiming to bolster market stability. However, Apple's shares tumbled in late trading after the company reported mixed earnings, with narrower profit margins despite a positive sales outlook.

Elsewhere, artificial intelligence company Anthropic reported a 12-fold increase in quarterly revenue and announced plans to invest over $895 billion in the coming years. US oil prices, however, held their declines early on November 3, after global benchmark Brent crude fell 7.6% to $104.77 a barrel as traders assessed possible progress in ending the conflict.

Despite easing geopolitical tensions, the drop in crude has not revived interest in technology shares due to lingering concerns about AI spending and high valuations.

Analysts noted that while lower oil prices could be beneficial for tech stocks, the recent market decline demonstrated a lack of conviction among investors. Microsoft, Meta Platforms, and Oracle have recently returned to the US bond markets to finance their investment plans, with Oracle and Meta planning to raise billions in new debt. Economic data releases, including US manufacturing activity and labor market reports, are expected to provide further insight into the market's direction.