Asian markets fall on inflation, aid issues

TOKYO: Equity markets suffered another sell-off Friday on fears that an expected strong global economic recovery this year will fan inflation and force central banks to hike interest rates, despite reassurances that ultra-loose monetary policies will be kept in place for as long as needed.

The rollout of vaccines, slowing of infections and Joe Biden’s impending huge US stimulus are proving to be a double-edged sword for traders as they weigh the much-needed return to pre-pandemic life with the prospect that prices will soar.