Asian Stocks Set to Drop as Oil Falls, Chip Selloff Hits Sentiment

Asian stock markets are poised to open lower on Thursday, tracking a selloff in US chipmakers that has dampened risk appetite across global equities. The decline is compounded by falling oil prices, which have added to the negative tone in energy-linked shares. Investors are also digesting fresh remarks from Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, who highlighted persistent inflation concerns, reinforcing expectations that US interest rates may stay higher for longer.

The selloff in US semiconductor stocks, a key barometer for global tech demand, has weighed heavily on Asian markets that are closely tied to the electronics supply chain. Meanwhile, the drop in crude oil prices — driven by demand worries and a stronger US dollar — has pressured energy sector stocks across the region. For fuel traders, the simultaneous decline in equities and oil reflects a risk-off environment where growth concerns are dominating. Live fuel prices and charts on NowPrice show how the market is reacting to these cross-asset moves, with Brent and WTI futures both under pressure.

Looking ahead, traders will focus on upcoming US economic data, including jobless claims and ISM manufacturing figures, for further clues on the Fed's policy path. Any signs of economic weakness could exacerbate the selloff in both equities and oil, while a surprise upside in data might trigger a short-term rebound. Additionally, OPEC+ production decisions and China's demand outlook remain key drivers for crude prices in the near term.