Asian markets fluctuate as traders prepare for 'Liberation Day'

FILE - People stand in front of an electronic stock board showing Japan's Nikkei index at a securities firm Thursday, March 6, 2025, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, File)

HONG KONG: Asian markets swung on Monday (March 24) as the White House prepares to impose tariffs on key trading partners next week that many fear could deal a painful blow to the global economy.

A report saying US President Donald Trump was considering a more targeted approach to the levies, which are expected to kick in on April 2, did little to soothe investors' nerves, with the uncertainty dealing a blow to confidence.