China’s Rate Cut Boosts CSI 300 as U.S. Futures Slip Amid Trade and Tax Headlines

Highlights

• China’s CSI 300 and Shanghai Composite advance following policy easing measures

• U.S. stock futures decline ahead of a Congressional tax bill vote

• RBA lowers interest rates citing subdued inflation and global uncertainty

Asian equities displayed mixed sentiment as investors assessed a series of central bank moves and trade developments. In China, the Shanghai Shenzhen CSI 300 Index and Shanghai Composite Index rose modestly following a surprise benchmark lending rate cut, signaling Beijing’s renewed effort to stimulate credit growth. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index also moved higher, benefiting from improving market sentiment after the rate move.

Australia’s ASX 200 Index gained ground after the Reserve Bank of Australia reduced interest rates to their lowest in two years. The RBA cited easing inflation pressures and flagged increased global economic challenges in its policy statement. In Japan, both the Nikkei 225 and TOPIX Index recorded gains after confirmation of continued U.S.-Japan trade negotiations raised hopes of a breakthrough before key tariff deadlines.

U.S. Futures Lower as Tax Bill Vote Looms

U.S. equity futures edged down in early trading as market participants awaited a key House vote on the administration’s tax reform bill. The bill, known informally as the Trump tax bill, has been central to market debates over fiscal policy direction and its influence on domestic economic momentum.

China Criticizes U.S. Chip Policy

Diplomatic tensions resurfaced as China’s Ministry of Commerce voiced strong opposition to recent U.S. restrictions on the use of Huawei’s Ascend computer chips. Officials stated that such actions contradicted the outcomes of a recently held China-U.S. high-level dialogue in Geneva. The ministry warned of retaliatory measures if Washington continued moves perceived as disruptive to trade normalization.

RBA Implements Second Rate Cut of the Year

The Reserve Bank of Australia implemented its second rate reduction this year, citing reduced inflation risks and escalating global headwinds. The RBA revised its economic outlook, lowering its gross domestic product forecast and indicating a slightly higher unemployment trajectory. Market expectations are aligning with further easing through the remainder of the year.

Oil Prices Steady Amid Geopolitical Crosscurrents

Crude oil prices remained relatively stable despite stalled nuclear discussions between the U.S. and Iran. Brent crude futures held their ground, while West Texas Intermediate saw a marginal uptick. Talks between the U.S. and Russia on a potential ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict did not significantly alter market expectations, as observers noted limited diplomatic progress.

China Cuts Benchmark Rates to Support Growth

The People’s Bank of China lowered its key one-year loan prime rate and the five-year lending benchmark for the first time since last October. Major state-owned lenders, including Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Ltd. (HKG:1398), Agricultural Bank of China Ltd. (SHA:601288), China Construction Bank Corp. (HKG:0939), and Bank of China Ltd. (SHA:601988), concurrently trimmed deposit rates. This move aims to invigorate borrowing and consumption amid continuing trade concerns, though analysts point to a more measured stimulus approach in light of recent diplomatic developments.

Japan-U.S. Trade Talks Continue

Japan’s government confirmed that another round of ministerial-level discussions with U.S. counterparts is expected shortly. Japanese officials reaffirmed their commitment to eliminating U.S. tariffs, especially on automobiles. Tokyo may offer concessions involving increased agricultural imports and vehicle regulatory changes. Both sides aim to finalize terms before broader duties are implemented.

Vietnam Engages in Bilateral Trade Negotiations

Vietnamese trade representatives are participating in bilateral negotiations in Washington aimed at averting high U.S. tariffs. Key topics include structural trade imbalances and future cooperation in nuclear technology, with talks scheduled to continue until the end of the week.

U.S. Advances Stablecoin Regulation Framework

Legislation establishing formal oversight of stablecoins has progressed in the U.S. Senate. The GENIUS Act cleared a procedural hurdle and includes provisions for a certification committee composed of top financial regulators. Digital currency markets responded positively to the legislative momentum, with key tokens showing gains.

Coal Imports Reflect Supply Adjustments

China’s coal imports from Russia declined during the previous month, reflecting broader trends in trade volumes across major suppliers. Russian officials indicated plans to provide logistical support to boost shipments, while volumes from Indonesia and Australia also saw reductions due to ongoing pricing issues and market realignments.