"Apple's iPhone Sales Decline in China as Huawei Gains Momentum"

Asia-Pacific markets were mixed with Hong Kong gaining over 2% while mainland Chinese stocks slid after a report of declining iPhone sales in China led to a tech slide on Wall Street. Apple shares slipped almost 3% in U.S. trading, impacting shares of Apple suppliers in Taiwan and South Korea. Australia's economy grew 0.2% in the fourth quarter of 2023, driven by government expenditure and private business investment. South Korea's inflation rate rose to 3.1% in February, higher than expected. Oil prices ticked lower after China's economic growth pledge and OPEC+ decision to extend production cuts. Tesla stock slid nearly 5% due to declining sales in China and a factory shutdown in Berlin, while Bitcoin hit a record high above $69,000.