Asian stocks experienced a slight decline in cautious trading as investors prepare for the incoming Trump administration and scale back expectations of significant U.S. rate cuts in 2025.
Despite year-end weakness, the MSCI Asia-Pacific index is on track for an 8% annual gain, marking its second consecutive year of growth.
Chinese manufacturing activity expanded for a third month in December, indicating moderate economic support through new stimulus measures.
The U.S. dollar remained robust against other currencies, influenced by market expectations regarding Federal Reserve policy and persistent inflation concerns.
In commodities, while oil prices are set for a second annual decline, gold surged 26% in 2024, reflecting its position as a safe haven amid global uncertainties.
For more detail, visit the original article at Reuters.