Asian stocks posted modest losses Friday following a weak U.S. session as investors mulled an uncertain economic backdrop and mixed signals on trade negotiations. New Zealand’s dollar slumped. Shares in Japan, Hong Kong and Korea retreated after weaker than expected data from Europe and the U.S. reignited worries about the world economy. U.S. durable goods orders were below expectations and home sales missed estimates. The dollar held an overnight gain amid reports signalling uneven progress in U.S.-China trade talks as next week’s deadline for more tariffs nears. The kiwi fell after New Zealand’s central bank said proposals to lift bank capital requirements may force it to cut interest rates.-  Bloomberg 

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