Asia-Pacific Markets Rise Modestly with ASX 200 +0.2%, Nikkei 225 +0.3% Amid Trump’s 50% Steel and Aluminum Tariffs

Asia-Pacific markets exhibited a mixed but generally positive performance at the start of June 2025 amid lingering trade uncertainties. The region's key indexes showed mild gains following a rebound on Wall Street, which appeared to look past ongoing global trade frictions. The ASX 200 increased by 0.2%, while the Nikkei 225 rose by 0.3%. The KOSPI market was closed during this period. Market sentiment was influenced by President Donald Trump's announcement to double steel and aluminum tariffs to 50%, contributing to ongoing trade uncertainty. Despite these challenges, technology sector gains supported the upward momentum in Asian stocks. US stock indexes approached record highs, further buoying Asian markets amid easing trade tensions.