FISG Daily Market Wrap 13th October

AI Concerns Drive Global Stocks Lower

Global equities extended their losses on Tuesday as renewed concerns over AI valuations and growing competition in the technology sector weighed on investor sentiment. MSCI’s Asia Pacific Index fell 1.7%, heading towards its weakest close since August, while US and European equity futures declined following a Wall Street sell-off that pushed the Nasdaq 100 to its lowest level this month. South Korea led the regional decline, with the Kospi plunging 6.5% as investors reduced exposure to technology stocks amid concerns over Chinese competition. SK Hynix and Samsung both fell around 8%, while technology shares also declined in Japan and Taiwan. Meanwhile, Tencent began marketing a bond offering that could raise approximately $5 billion to fund its expanding AI investments, highlighting the sector’s continued demand for capital. Government bonds rallied as falling equities and oil prices increased demand for safer assets. The US 10-year Treasury yield dropped 4 basis points to 5.26%, while Australian and New Zealand bonds also advanced. Brent crude fell 1% to around $105.60 a barrel, adding to the broader shift in market sentiment. In currency markets, India’s Rupee extended its gains after the central bank introduced additional measures to support the currency amid elevated oil prices and foreign capital outflows. The Dollar also weakened, with its gauge ending a four-day winning streak. With concerns over AI valuations, intensifying competition and global growth prospects continuing to shape sentiment, investors remain focused on whether technology companies can justify their investment levels. Meanwhile, developments in oil markets and the wider geopolitical environment, including tensions across the Persian Gulf, remain important factors for global inflation and the outlook for monetary policy. FISG Daily Market Wrap provides a concise view of the forces moving global markets, helping investors stay informed and better prepared for what comes next. FISG — Interstellar Group