Asia-Pacific Markets React to Japanese Manufacturing Data

On Monday afternoon, the Asia-Pacific stock markets presented a mixed picture as investors digested the latest report on the Japanese manufacturing sector's activity. The report indicated a softer pace of decline in factory activity for December, sparking varied reactions across the region.

Central Bank Signals and Market Movements

Adding to the market's dynamics, People's Bank of China (PBoC) Governor Pan Gongsheng hinted at the possibility of lower interest rates, suggesting a flexible approach to monetary policy. Meanwhile, the markets also reacted to the tragic Jeju Air plane crash in South Korea, which claimed 179 lives, leaving only two survivors.

Stock Indexes Performance

Japan's Nikkei 225 saw a decrease of 0.91% at 7:15 am CET, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng remained unchanged. South Korea's Kospi Composite, however, experienced a slight increase of 0.14%. On the Chinese mainland, the Shanghai Composite edged up by 0.20%, contrasting with the Shenzhen Composite's 0.44% decline. Australia's S&P/ASX 200 closed with a 0.32% dip.

Currency Movements

In the currency markets, the dollar remained stable against the yen, trading at ¥158.00500 at 7:17 am CET.