Asia-Pacific Markets React to BoJ's Steady Interest Rate and Japan's Economic Indicators

Investors across the Asia-Pacific region showed mixed reactions as the Bank of Japan (BoJ) announced its decision to maintain the benchmark interest rate at 0.5%. This decision came alongside the release of Japan's industrial production figures, which saw a downturn in January, and a significant shift in the country's trade balance from a deficit to a surplus of ¥584.5 billion in February.

Market performances varied across the region. Japan's Nikkei and Hong Kong's Hang Seng remained stable, while South Korea's Kospi experienced a 0.71% increase. Conversely, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 saw a 0.41% drop at closing. In mainland China, the Shanghai Composite and Shenzhen Composite both recorded slight declines.

Meanwhile, the dollar strengthened against the yen, trading at ¥149.7880, marking a 0.35% increase.