Asia stocks slip as US strikes on Iran spark risk-off ahead of PCE data

Asian stock markets retreated after fresh U.S. strikes on Iran dampened risk appetite ahead of the U.S. PCE inflation report; key indices eased in Japan, Hong Kong, and China (Nikkei 225 down ~0.1%, TOPIX ~0.2% lower, Hang Seng ~-2%, CSI 300 ~-1.1%), with Australia’s ASX 200 also lower. Oil prices rebounded, Brent near $97 and WTI above $90, as energy concerns persisted. Wall Street had closed at record highs previously on hopes of easing Middle East tensions, while traders awaited inflation data that could influence the Fed’s policy path.