Asian Shares Retreat on Inflation, Rate Concerns; Nikkei Outperforms as Tokyo Reopens

Asian stocks traded mostly lower on Thursday, September 24, 2026, as inflation and interest rate worries weighed on sentiment across the region. Japan's Nikkei bucked the trend, rising notably as Tokyo markets reopened following a three-day holiday. Regional benchmarks in China, Hong Kong, South Korea and Australia slipped, reflecting investor caution over persistent price pressures and the prospect of central banks holding rates higher for longer. The Nikkei's advance marked a catch-up move after the extended closure, with traders digesting accumulated global developments. Broader Asian sentiment remained fragile as markets assessed the rate outlook and its implications for growth.