Asia-Pacific Stock Markets Show Mixed Responses

Investors in the Asia-Pacific region had a lot to digest this Monday, as they reacted to the latest economic reports. Notably, Japan's trade deficit on the balance of payments (BOP) basis and a significant drop in China's annual inflation rate were at the forefront of market movements.

Market Movements Across the Region

Japan's Nikkei 225 saw a modest increase of 0.40% by 7:13 am CET, signaling a cautious optimism among investors. Conversely, Hong Kong's Hang Seng experienced a downturn, decreasing by 1.74%, while South Korea's Kospi enjoyed a slight climb of 0.26%. In mainland China, the Shanghai Composite and the Shenzhen Composite both faced declines, dropping by 0.42% and 0.26% respectively at 7:14 am CET. Meanwhile, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 ended the day on a positive note, improving by 0.18%.

Currency Fluctuations

On the currency front, the dollar weakened against the yen, trading 0.20% lower at 7:15 am CET, with the exchange rate settling at 147.65200.