Markets Today: the Asian close, 18 September 2026
The Asian trading day in one place: 7 stories across currencies, central banks, equities and deals, collected at the close.
Central banks & currencies
Japanese Yen Nears Seven-Month High as BOJ, Fed Rate Hikes Loom: The Japanese yen reached a seven-month high against the US dollar this week. Markets anticipate Bank of Japan policy tightening and unwinding of carry trades, driving the yen's strength. Investors also monitor upcoming Federal Reserve and European Central Bank rate decisions.
Asian Markets Eye Gains as Oil Falls, BOJ Rate Hike Looms: Equity futures for Japan, South Korea, and Australia point higher today, following a Wall Street rally and easing inflation fears as Brent crude dipped below US$105.
RBI to Absorb ₹5 Trillion in Overnight Reverse Repo: The Reserve Bank of India plans to absorb ₹5 trillion from the banking system on September 9, 2026. This overnight variable rate reverse repo operation manages current liquidity.
Stocks & bonds
India's Nifty, Sensex Fall Third Day; Brent Crude Above $100 Amid Asia Weakness: Indian equity benchmarks, Nifty and Sensex, declined for a third straight session on 9 September 2026. Global market weakness, elevated crude oil prices, and rising bond yields weighed on sentiment, with Asian indices also showing broad declines.
Indian Equities Face Lower Open as Crude Prices Climb Past $100: India's Sensex and Nifty 50 will open lower on 10 September, driven by global caution. Brent crude trades near $102 a barrel, revisiting a July high. Rising bond yields also contribute to market weakness, reviving inflation and interest rate outlook concerns.
Seoul Stocks Close Flat as Fed Rate Hike, Won Weakens: The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) ended largely unchanged on Thursday, down 0.04 percent, following the US Federal Reserve's rate increase, while the Korean won depreciated 13.6 won against the US dollar.
Kotak Securities analyst names three Indian stock picks: Amol Athawale, VP of Technical Research at Kotak Securities, recommends MFSL, HDFC Life, and Britannia for short-term gains as India's Nifty 50 shows recovery signs.
Every item above was reported and checked separately today; this wrap collects them in one place at the Asian close. Follow any headline through to the full story for the figures and their sources. The Brief carries the same day in five minutes tomorrow morning.
This article is journalism, not investment advice; consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions. Market data is indicative, may be delayed, and should be verified with your broker or exchange before use.
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