shares were set for a bleak open, with the future contract for the Dow industrials down 1.2% at 34,675.00.
Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 closed 1.6% lower at 27,821.76, as pessimism over the Omicron variant set in.
Some analysts think a serious economic downturn, like what happened last year, likely will be averted because many people have been vaccinated.
The vaccination rollout rate varies by country in the region, at about 77% in Japan, 50% in Vietnam and 35% in Indonesia.
Travel bans, including decisions by Japan and Israel to bar foreign visitors, threaten to disrupt global business.
Shipping problems would risk pushing prices higher, adding to inflation pressures.
A measure of production rose 3.6 points to 52, reflecting a recovery from power rationing imposed in major manufacturing areas in September.
Besides waiting on more clues about how much economic damage Omicron will ultimately do, the market has several big mileposts this week that could swing prices.