Sell-Off Wave in Chip Sector Hit Asian Stock Markets
The weakness seen in tech stocks on Wall Street last night spilled over to the region's chip giants — Samsung, SK Hynix and TSMC — this morning and pulled indices down. In Japan, the Topix index fell %2,6, in South Korea, the Kospi index fell %4,8, in China, the Shanghai Composite index fell %1,1, and in Hong Kong, the Hang Seng index fell %0,5. Australia's S&P/ASX 200 index, supported by mining and energy stocks, displayed a relatively more resilient outlook with a limited loss, falling %0,3.
Brent Above $91, Middle East-Driven Supply Concerns Persist
Brent crude is trading above 91 dollars per barrel under the impact of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and congestion on trade routes passing through the Strait of Oman. At the same time, the US 10-year Treasury bond yield floating around %4,71 weighs on appetite for growth-oriented and risky stocks. This dual pressure — high energy costs and high real yields — stands out as the primary factor curbing risk assets.
Gold Balanced Around $4.340
XAU/USD is trading flat around the $4.340/oz level, caught between safe-haven demand and the pressure of high global bond yields. While the rise in yields caps gold, the loss of risk appetite triggered by sell-off pressure in the tech sector provides some support to the metal.
USD/JPY Near Intervention Zone, EUR/USD Flat
USD/JPY is hovering near the 159,45-159,80 band, where traders are closely monitoring a potential official FX intervention should the 160,00 level be tested. Meanwhile, EUR/USD continues to remain flat around 1,1575 without seeking a clear direction during the day.
Ekonomik Takvim | 19 August 2026
🇪🇺 Afternoon (European Session)
Flash PMI Data and Central Bank Statements
The center of gravity for the day is shifting to the European session; positioning will be monitored ahead of PMI data and scheduled central bank speeches. Keeping risk limits tight is recommended due to ongoing tech sector volatility.
⚠️ CFDs and forex trading carry a significant risk of loss and may not be suitable for every investor. Follow global markets with FXPARTNER, evaluate economic developments with instant analysis, and make informed trading decisions. This content is for general information purposes only and is not investment advice.
Trade with the right broker
While following market developments, check out brokers compared based on regulation, cost, platform, and withdrawal reliability criteria.
See Broker RankingsThis content is for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. You are advised to conduct your own research and, if necessary, consult an expert before making investment decisions.