Asian Markets Respond to Japanese Inflation Data

Investors across the Asia-Pacific region reacted positively to the latest inflation data from Japan, leading to a mostly higher trading session on Friday. The Statistics Bureau of Japan reported that the inflation rate in Tokyo's Ku-area reached 3.5% in April, signaling a robust economic activity.

Market Performances Across the Region

South Korea's Kospi saw an increase of 0.66%, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose by 0.85%. Japan's Nikkei 225 led the gains with a jump of 1.43%. In mainland China, the Shanghai Composite remained flat, but the Shenzhen Composite managed a 0.49% rise.

Meanwhile, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 was closed for the holidays, missing the day's trading activities.

Currency Movements

The dollar strengthened against the yen, trading 0.17% higher at 142.87400, reflecting the dynamic shifts in the region's financial markets.