Asian equities fell for the sixth consecutive day, ending the week in negative sign. The MSCI Asia Pacific index fell 0,1% to 138.35 at 9:00am in Tokyo before the Hong Kong market opened. The measure dropped 2,6% this week, approaching its worst close in six months. The index is also down 7,4% from its six-year high in July.
In headlined news, Hong Kong's pro-democracy leaders said they would escalate protests if their demands are not met. European Central Bank President Mario Draghi said the central bank would buy assets for at least two years to support growth and inflation. US unemployment data turned out to be better than expected.
“Most global stocks are undergoing a correction,” said Monty Guild, chief investment officer at Guild Investment Management. “Many developed and emerging markets will decline as investors shift their exposures to US assets.”
The Japanese Topix fell 0,1% and the yen was trading at 108.46 against the dollar. Australia's S&P/ASX 200 was down 0,2% and New Zealand's NZX 50 was down 0,2%. The South Korean, Indian and Chinese markets were closed for holidays.
