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Asia-Pacific markets traded subdued as investors weigh renewed U.S. tariff threats tied to Greenland that have stoked concerns of a growing rift between Washington and European nations.
European states are reportedly discussing counter-tariffs and broader punitive economic measures in response to fresh tariff threats from President Donald Trump, further straining relations over Greenland.
Trump on Saturday announced that exports from eight European nations would start at 10% on Feb. 1 and climb to 25% by June 1 if talks fail to secure U.S. control of Greenland, a mineral-rich territory, semi-autonomous island under Denmark.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index futures were at 26,640, higher than the HSI’s last close of 26,563.9.
Investors are closely watching developments in Japanese markets after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said on Monday that she plans to dissolve parliament and call a snap election on Feb. 8.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 slid 0.7%, while the Topix declined 0.52%. South Korea’s Kospi fell 0.41%, while the small-cap Kosdaq traded flat.
Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 lost 0.46%.
U.S. stock futures pointed to a downbeat session on Wall Street as Trump intensifies his rhetoric on Greenland.
