The Asian stock markets showed a predominantly positive trend on Thursday afternoon, largely influenced by Wall Street's recent rally, which followed the latest US inflation data. The US consumer price index rose to 2.7% in November, reflecting a slight increase in inflation.

Adding to the positive sentiment, investors also considered the latest employment figures from Australia. The nation's unemployment rate dropped to 3.9%, marking the lowest level in eight months and indicating a robust job market.

In the Asian markets, the S&P/ASX 200 closed 0.28% lower, while the Shanghai Composite Index and Shenzhen Composite Index both saw gains of approximately 0.55% and 0.58% respectively. The Hang Seng Index increased by 1.62%, and the Kospi rose by 1.77%. The Nikkei 225 also experienced a 1.56% increase.

Meanwhile, the US dollar remained stable against the Japanese yen, trading at ¥152.69550 at 7:15 am CET.