Asian markets trade mixed ahead of key US inflation data

October 14, 2026 (MLN): Asian markets traded mixed on Wednesday as investors awaited the release of US inflation data for September, which could influence expectations for the Federal Reserve’s future interest rate decisions.

Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 declined 0.62%, while Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained 0.32%. South Korea’s Kospi advanced 0.82%, whereas the Topix fell 0.11% and the small-cap Kosdaq lost 0.45%, according to CNBC.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index futures stood at 24,340, slightly below the previous close of 24,345.22. Meanwhile, Japan’s Nikkei 225 futures indicated a higher opening, with Chicago and Osaka contracts trading at 68,055 and 68,100, respectively, compared with the index’s previous close of 67,777.52.

Investor sentiment remained under pressure following weakness in US semiconductor stocks, with the VanEck Semiconductor ETF extending its losing streak to six sessions on concerns over excessive artificial intelligence spending and intensifying competition from China.

Despite strong quarterly results from major US banks, including Goldman Sachs and Citigroup, their shares ended Tuesday’s session lower, indicating heightened investor expectations during the ongoing third-quarter earnings season.

According to FactSet data, S&P 500 companies are expected to report blended earnings growth of around 30%, while the semiconductor and semiconductor equipment sector is projected to record growth of 130% year over year.

Market participants are now focused on the September US Consumer Price Index (CPI), due Wednesday. Economists surveyed by Dow Jones expect annual inflation to accelerate to 3.6%, compared with 3.4% in the previous reading.

The inflation report comes amid elevated oil prices and rising gasoline costs in the United States. According to AAA, the average gasoline price has reached $4.34 per gallon, up from $3.08 a year earlier.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a temporary easing of restrictions on Russian diesel fuel exports has raised questions about its potential impact on energy costs, although analysts expect limited relief for truckers and farmers.

Investors are also monitoring upcoming corporate earnings, with Bank of America and Morgan Stanley scheduled to report results on Wednesday, alongside Dutch semiconductor equipment maker ASML.

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