HONG KONG: Asian markets fluctuated Wednesday after US midterm elections left the two houses of Congress split between Democrats and Republicans, paving the way for gridlock on Capitol Hill.
Donald Trump’s Republican party maintained its control of the Senate but the Democrats regained power in the House of Representatives, in line with forecasts, reports AFP.
Nor will it wind in the president’s aggressive efforts to reframe international trade, which has been a key to recent volatility in global markets.
“Equities remain supported, suggesting this outcome is positive for risk since the gridlock outcome ultimately will support the president’s mandate and a higher probability of more fiscal stimulus,” said Stephen Innes, head of Asia-Pacific trading at OANDA.
“Realistically I can’t see how the Democrats would want to be perceived as killjoys and try to stifle any policy which is supporting the economy,” he added.
However, with control of the House, Democrats will likely look to prevent Trump pushing through his most divisive measures — gumming up the legislative process — while also looking to boost oversight of the White House.
Hong Kong lost its earlier gains to sit barely moved in late afternoon trade, while Shanghai ended 0.7 percent down and Tokyo shed 0.3 percent.
On currency markets the dollar dipped against its major peers as well as higher-yielding and emerging market units, as a win for Republicans in both houses of Congress would likely have led to more tax cuts and regulatory measures. The pound continued to rise as traders grew optimistic that officials are close to an agreement for a post-Brexit deal for Britain, with the question of Northern Ireland the main sticking point.
“With the smoke surrounding a possible Brexit deal thickening, the trading market looks justified in taking the view there must be a fire somewhere,” said Ray Attrill, head of forex strategy at National Australia Bank.
Energy firms dropped with oil prices on worries about an oversupply following a forecast-beating rise in US stockpiles, while the head of the International Energy Agency called on OPEC to boost output.
