"Market Volatility: Asian Stocks Sink and Futures Edge Higher Amid Fed Uncertainty"

Asian stocks retreated as risk aversion remained high ahead of the Federal Reserve's final meeting for the year, with concerns over weak economic growth in China and uncertainty over the central bank's outlook. Chinese stocks continued to decline after data showed a deepening disinflationary trend, while Hong Kong's market was pulled down by losses in mainland stocks. Broader Asian markets were subdued as investors awaited the Fed's decision on interest rates, although markets remained convinced that rates would be kept on hold. Indian stocks also retreated from record highs as inflation rose, posing a risk to the country's fast-growing economy.