Traders are watching upcoming U.S. inflation data, as a softer CPI could ignite a short-term rally above 18,200. Asian stock markets today settled mixed. China’s Shanghai Composite Index (SHCOMP) closed up +0.90%, and Japan’s Nikkei 225 Stock Index (NIK) closed down -0.69%. Apple shares dipped slightly ahead of its iPhone event today, but the setup has traders watching for any upside surprises on new device specs or price points. With shares near record highs, the market will be quick to react to any change in consumer strategy or hardware innovation. Seasonal patterns suggest that tech-heavy indices tend to outperform in Q3 trading.
