Asian markets traded mostly higher in early deals on Thursday, kindled by optimism for lower negotiated reciprocal tariffs. Technology stocks lead the rebound after previous sessional sell off. Reports that China is open to engage in trade negotiations with the US with certain preconditions also boosted investor sentiments. Still, gains were limited by uncertainty over looming tariffs, as investors struggled to navigate rapidly evolving tit-for-tat measures. Japan’s Nikkei advanced with the news that Japan making positive progress in trade talks with the US. Weak local currency yen supported the foreign investments.
Nikkei 225 up by 302.84 points or 0.89% to 34,223.24, Straits Times higher by 50.23 points or 1.37% to 3,712.68, Hang Seng bullish by 341.91 points 1.60% to 21,398.89, Jakarta Composite lifted by 8.09 points or 0.13% to 6,408.14, KOSPI Index increased by 15.85 points or 0.65% to 2,463.28, Shanghai Composite rose by 6.82 points or 0.21% to 3,282.82 and FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI added by 7.86 points or 0.53% to 1,484.78.
On the flip side, Taiwan Weighted down by 106.83 points or 0.55% to 19,361.17.
