Asian markets settled mostly higher on Wednesday tracking rally in Wall Street overnight after data showed US inflation eased slightly last month, while easing concerns over contagion effect in the banking sector also supported market sentiments. Chinese shares gained after data showed China's industrial production and retail sales expanded in the January to February period. Japanese shares ended unchanged as the Bank of Japan’s January meeting minutes showed that board members reiterating the need to maintain its ultra-dovish stance. Although, investors are cautiously awaiting next week's FOMC meeting.
Asian Indices | Last Trade | Change in Points | Change in % |
Shanghai Composite | 3,263.31 | 18.00 | 0.55 |
Hang Seng | 19,539.87 | 291.91 | 1.49 |
Jakarta Composite | 6,628.14 | -13.67 | -0.21 |
KLSE Composite | 1,403.93 | 10.10 | 0.72 |
Nikkei 225 | 27,229.48 | 7.44 | 0.03 |
Straits Times | 3,172.92 | 43.17 | 1.36 |
KOSPI Composite | 2,379.72 | 30.75 | 1.29 |
Taiwan Weighted | 15,387.59 | 27.17 | 0.18 |