Asian markets set for mixed open

July 02, 2026 (MLN): Asian markets are expected to begin Thursday's session on a mixed note, with investor sentiment remaining cautious after a broad selloff in semiconductor stocks dragged U.S. equities lower overnight.

Japan is likely to lead regional declines, with futures indicating a weaker opening for the Nikkei 225. Chicago-traded futures stood at 69,750, while Osaka futures were quoted at 69,610, both below the benchmark's previous close of 70,474.96, according to CNBC.

In contrast, Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index is projected to open slightly higher as trading resumes following a public holiday. Futures were last seen at 22,990, above the index's previous close of 22,881.02.

Australian equities are also expected to start lower, with futures pointing to a softer opening after the S&P/ASX 200 ended the previous session at 8,722.90. Futures were last trading at 8,687.

Meanwhile, developments in the Middle East continued to attract investors' attention. U.S. President Donald Trump said discussions between the United States and Iran, being held in Qatar, were making encouraging progress.

Speaking to reporters, Trump said efforts toward Iran's denuclearization were "moving along well," adding that the two sides had held "very good meetings" and that further developments would be closely watched.

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