Asia-Pacific Markets Trade Mixed as Investors Weigh Iran Tensions, Fed Chair Powell's Investigation

Asia-Pacific Markets Trade Mixed as Investors Weigh Iran Tensions, Fed Chair Powell's Investigation

Asia-Pacific markets traded mixed on Monday, January 12, 2026, as investors weighed the ongoing protests in Iran and the investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell.

Market Reaction

The Hang Seng Index fell 0.5% in Hong Kong, while the CSI 300 Index declined 0.3% in Shanghai. The Kospi in South Korea dropped 0.2%. In contrast, the S&P/ASX 200 in Australia rose 0.1%.

Iran Protests and Fed Investigation

Investors are closely watching the situation in Iran, where protests have been ongoing for several days. The US President Donald Trump has reportedly been considering options to intervene, which has added to the market's uncertainty.

Meanwhile, the investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell has raised concerns about the independence of the Federal Reserve. The investigation is ongoing, and its outcome is expected to have a significant impact on the market.

Conclusion

The mixed market reaction in Asia-Pacific markets on Monday reflects the uncertainty surrounding the Iran protests and the Fed investigation. Investors will continue to closely monitor these developments and adjust their portfolios accordingly.

Sources

[1] Asia-Pacific markets trade mixed as investors weigh Iran tensions, Fed chair Powell's investigation