Asian stock markets saw positive closures following cues from the robust performance of the US stock market, bolstered by various regional developments and economic indicators.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index ended on a positive note, closing at 17,085.33 points. This marked a significant increase of 93.80 points, reflecting a gain of +0.55%. The rally in the Hong Kong market was instigated by a statement issued by Mr. John Lee, Administrator of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. In the statement, it was disclosed that Hong Kong intends to reduce stamp duty on share transfer transactions, a move designed to stimulate greater activity in the stock market.
China’s Shanghai Composite index also saw a positive close at 2,974.11 points, recording a gain of 11.87 points or +0.40%. The market’s performance was supported by news reports indicating China’s approval of the issuance of 1 trillion yuan worth of government bonds. This substantial issuance is aimed at boosting the nation’s economy.
In Tokyo, the Nikkei index closed positively at 31,269.92 points, marking an increase of 207.57 points or +0.67%. Investors in Japan were encouraged to buy stocks in line with the positive trends observed in the US and other Asian stock markets.
However, the Australian stock market had a mixed performance. The S&P/ASX 200 closed at 6,854.30 points, marking a minor decline of 2.60 points or -0.04%, while the All Ordinaries index closed at 7,046.30 points, demonstrating a minor gain of 0.70 points or +0.01%. The market was influenced by the expectation that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) may consider raising interest rates. This speculation arose following stronger-than-anticipated inflation numbers reported in Australia for the third quarter of 2023.
The collective performance of Asian markets showcases the ongoing influence of global and regional events on investor sentiment, underlining the interconnected nature of financial markets worldwide.