SINGAPORE - The Straits Times Index fell 0.55 per cent at the open of the market on Friday, dragged down by worries over the direction of the global economy.

Japan's consumer price index continued to fall for the third month while Britain's consumer confidence was at its lowest in six months.

On top of economic concerns, more troubling news emerged from Syria as geopolitical tensions continued to simmer over the downing of a Russian jet by Turkish forces.

The STI fell by about 15 points to 2,868.96 points, with banks leading the falls.

OCBC Bank shed 20 cents to $8.70 while UOB dropped 80 cents to $19.17.