Equities Loose Steam as Central Banks Silent on Policy Measures to Tackle Inflation

Investors held back optimism reflected by retreated rally of global equities after major central banks in the world, Federal Reserves (FED) and Bank of England (BoE) kept policy measures for inflation an open dialogue in the distant future.

Asian equities pared gains on Thursday closing the week on red. KOSPI, CSI300, HSI, SET and Nikkei 225 down on closing by 0.47%, 0.54%, 1.41%, 0.07% and 0.61% respectively.

S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures opened tracking losses of Asian indices.

U.S. dollar and treasuries remained steady. Oil extended gains after OPEC+ defied U.S. request to boost output, this lead speculation on U.S. likely to release reserves.

Traders are eyeing U.S. unemployment and nonfarm payrolls tonight which is the only number standing between policy makers and the market to set a specific timeline on tapering. Earlier FED announced tapering to start later this month however hinted job market data would be crucial factor to shape withdrawal of emergency support details.