Asian stocks traded within a tight range as investors awaited US data to assess the impact of Trump’s tariff war. The MSCI Asia-Pacific index, excluding Japan, rose by 0.4%. Japan’s Prime Minister is set to meet with the US Treasury Secretary ahead of the August 1 tariff deadline. China’s GDP slowed less than expected in Q2, while industrial output and unemployment remained stable. European stocks edged up after Trump’s tariff negotiation willingness with the EU. Auto stocks led gains, while the euro held steady against the dollar. Commodities and gold prices remained choppy. US earnings season kicks off, with banks reporting today. The DAX Index bounced off support, with potential for further upside if trade deal developments are positive. Client sentiment data shows traders are mostly short on the DAX Index, indicating a possible rise in the near term.

Read more at Investing.com: Asian Stocks Edge Higher as Investors Await US CPI and Tariff Clarity