The Shanghai Composite fell 0.3% to 3,934 on Thursday, while the Shenzhen Component dropped 1.1% to 13,557, tracking losses across Asian peers as market sentiment turned subdued amid mixed signals from US President Donald Trump on the potential easing of the Middle East conflict. Trump said the war in Iran was “very close” to completion and expected to meet its objectives in the coming weeks, yet also warned that military operations could escalate, even as diplomatic efforts continue.
Meanwhile, the People’s Bank of China drained CNY 890 billion through short-term operations in March and absorbed another CNY 250 billion via longer-term tools, reversing months of liquidity support. With growth rebounding and the Iran conflict lifting oil prices, the central bank is taking a more cautious stance that could help China exit record deflation. Tech stocks were among the worst performers, particularly Zhongji Innolight (-2.4%), Eoptolink Technology (-2%), and NAURA Technology (-2%).
