"Asia-Pacific Markets Stall as Japanese Stocks Lead Declines and Yuan Rises: March 25, 2024 Update"

Asian stock markets stalled as investors awaited U.S. inflation data, with concerns that higher-than-expected figures could impact interest rate outlook. Japan's warning on yen weakness and China's central bank setting a firmer fix for the yuan also influenced market sentiment. Expectations for global interest rate cuts have boosted equities, with U.S. and European inflation data and central bank meetings in focus this week. The dollar was slightly lower against the yen, while gold edged higher and oil prices were supported by geopolitical tensions.