Asian Markets React to BoJ's Rate Decision

Following the Bank of Japan's decision to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 0.5%, major stock markets in the Asia-Pacific region showed mixed reactions. Investors are closely watching the implications of this decision alongside recent economic data from Japan.

Industrial Production and Trade Balance Insights

Japan's industrial production took a hit in January, showing a decline, while the country's trade balance saw a significant shift from a deficit in January to a surplus of ¥584.5 billion in February. These figures are crucial for understanding the current economic landscape in Japan.

Market Movements Across Asia

At 7:11 am CET, Japan's Nikkei and Hong Kong's Hang Seng were flat, with South Korea's Kospi rising by 0.71%. Conversely, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 dropped by 0.41% at closing. Mainland China's Shanghai Composite slipped by 0.17%, and the Shenzhen Composite declined by 0.46%.

Currency Fluctuations

The dollar saw a 0.35% increase against the yen, trading at ¥149.7880 at 7:15 am CET, reflecting the ongoing currency market adjustments in response to the BoJ's policy stance.