Asian markets trade higher in early deals on Wednesday

18 Feb 2026 Evaluate

Asian markets traded higher in early deals on Wednesday, albeit thin trading volume due to holidays in most of the Asian stock indices. Rally in technological sector stocks and steady oil rates amidst progress in nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran kindled the investor sentiments. Japan’s Nikkei advanced followed by reports on strong export growth. Exports spurred by 16.8% year-on-year in January, the sharpest rise in nearly four years. Local currency yen was weaker supporting foreign investment inflows. Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite rebounded from two straight sessional losses as markets reopened after holidays. Strong growth momentum, seasonal consumption strength, and solid external buffers kindled the index. Meanwhile, market keenly eyed interest rate decision by the central bank of the country due on Thursday, which is widely expected to keep rates unchanged for the fifth straight time. Stock markets of Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan and China are closed for a holiday. 

Nikkei surged by 770.51 points or 1.34% to 57,337.00, and Jakarta Composite rose by 72.82 points 0.89% to 8,285.09.

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