The Shanghai Composite Index fell 0.8% to 3,887 on Friday, while the Shenzhen Component dipped 0.1% to 13,474. Both benchmarks were on course for weekly declines as investor caution persisted amid the protracted conflict in the Middle East. Regional tensions remain elevated, although Iran and Oman are reportedly working on a protocol to “monitor transit” through the strategic waterway, a move aimed at easing strains. At the same time, China and Pakistan are promoting a multi-point diplomatic initiative of their own, while Iran continues to exercise tight control over the shipping lane.
On the domestic front, RatingDog reported that China’s composite PMI eased to 51.5 in March from 55.4 in February, reflecting slower growth in both manufacturing (50.8 vs. 52.1) and services (52.1 vs. 56.7). Among individual names, Contemporary Amperex Technology (-3.3%), BYD (-1.6%), Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (-1%), and Bank of China (-1.4%) were among the session’s weakest performers.
