The Nikkei 225 and TOPIX indexes both saw declines at the opening, falling by 1.4% and 1.2%, respectively, reflecting broader market concerns.

Qualcomm is considering delaying a decision on an Intel acquisition until after the new U.S. president is inaugurated in January, given the complexities of such a transaction. A merger of Qualcomm and Intel, both crucial to digital infrastructure, would likely face intense scrutiny from antitrust regulators globally, including in China, a key market. Qualcomm made informal inquiries with Chinese antitrust regulators in September but hasn’t received feedback, as regulators await a formal bid. Qualcomm is also weighing the potential advantage of Intel’s upcoming earnings report, which could lower Intel’s stock price, making a deal more affordable. However, there is no certainty that Qualcomm will move forward with the acquisition.