Investors Eye Trump's Second Term and Potential Market Impacts

As the Asia-Pacific stock markets opened on Monday, they mostly trended higher. Investors are closely watching the anticipated executive orders from US President-elect Donald Trump as he prepares for his second term. Trump, set to be sworn in later today, promised a "brand new day of American strength" during a rally on Sunday.

Market Movements Across Asia

Australia's S&P/ASX 200 closed up by 0.45%. In China, the Shanghai Composite saw a 0.32% increase, while the Shenzhen Composite jumped by 1.17%. Japan's Nikkei 225 rose by 1.15%, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng increased by 2.05%. However, South Korea's Kospi Composite slightly fell by 0.18%.

Currency and Other Market Factors

The dollar remained stable against the yen, trading at ¥156.06900. Market participants are also attentive to a potential interest rate increase in Japan expected by the week's end. Additionally, Trump's launch of his own cryptocurrency and the release of the first hostages and prisoners amid the Hamas-Israel ceasefire deal were notable events influencing market sentiments.