Market Optimism in Asia Ahead of Trump's Inauguration

As the Asia-Pacific region welcomed the new week, major stock indexes showed an upward trend. Investors are keenly awaiting the inauguration of United States President-elect Donald Trump, hoping to gain insights into the future policy directions under his administration.

China's Central Bank Holds Rates Steady

In financial news, China's central bank announced that it would keep its 1-year and 5-year Loan Prime Rates (LPR) unchanged, at 3.10% and 3.60% respectively. This decision comes as the market also anticipates Japan's industrial production data, expected to be released later today.

Regional Market Highlights

At 3:12 am CET, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 saw a modest increase of 0.24%. Shortly after, South Korea's Kospi Composite edged up by 0.08%. A more significant jump was observed in Hong Kong's Hang Seng, which surged by 1.70% at 3:13 am CET. On the Chinese mainland, the Shanghai Composite and the Shenzhen Composite also enjoyed gains, increasing by 0.65% and 1.18% respectively. Japan's Nikkei 225 was not left behind, climbing 1.25% at 3:15 am CET.

Currency Movements

In the currency markets, the dollar experienced a slight dip, trading 0.09% lower against the yen at ¥156.0115 by 3:16 am CET.