Tariff Threats Rattle Markets as Stocks Slide Early, Yen Strength Pressures Nikkei, and Brent Holds Steady

• Following the US’s threats of tariffs on European countries triggering volatility, a widespread sell-off occurred at the start of this week, with the Nasdaq recording a significant drop at the market opening during this sell-off.

• The Nikkei index fell about 1.8% at the opening, negatively affecting exporters as the yen gained against the US dollar, but then recovered.

• While other Asian markets were mixed, US stock futures (S&P 500, Dow) also weakened at the opening due to tariff uncertainty but recovered.

• Brent crude oil traded unchanged at around $65.91 per barrel early Monday, with investors seen trying to balance recent gains with overall market uncertainty.