Asia-Pacific Markets: China’s industrial juggernaut has come to an unexpected halt, extending its hiatus for a formidable fourth month. Nevertheless, this setback did not deter Asia-Pacific markets from ascending on Monday, as they valiantly weathered July’s slump in Chinese factory activity.
According to the latest data from the national office of statistics, China’s official industrial Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) ascended to 49.3, a commendable upswing from June’s 49.0 figure. However, June’s non-manufacturing PMI was not as fortunate, witnessing a descent to 51.5 from its previous peak of 53.2.
Despite this mixed performance, key indices in the region displayed remarkable resilience. The Hang Seng Tech index recorded a notable upswing of 2.77 percent, while the Hang Seng index also marked an impressive 1.47 percent gain. Notably, the Hang Seng Index (HSI) had not breached the elusive 20,000 mark in over a month, making this surge all the more significant.
In mainland China, the bullish spirit remained intact, driving all markets to climb. The Shanghai Composite index rose by a modest 0.39 percent, while the Shenzhen Component witnessed a more substantial gain of 0.63 percent.
Meanwhile, Japan’s equities market celebrated notable progress. The Nikkei 225 rose by an encouraging 1.26 percent, reaching an impressive 33,172 level. Not to be outdone, the Topix index soared by 1.39 percent, achieving a remarkable high not seen in 33 years, settling at 2,322.56.
However, Japan’s industrial output in June fell short of the experts’ predictions, rising only by 2 percent instead of the anticipated 2.4 percent. Nonetheless, this minor hiccup didn’t hinder the ascent of the Kospi, which surged by a formidable 0.93 percent to reach 2,632.58, marking its third consecutive day of gains. Furthermore, the Kosdaq index outperformed all expectations, soaring by an impressive 2.25 percent and reaching an impressive 935.97, a level not witnessed in the past 16 months.
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Looking beyond Asian markets, the S&P/ASX 200 index surged to an impressive 7,410.4 ahead of Tuesday’s anticipated RBA rate decision. Experts predicted a 25 basis point climb, bringing the average policy rate to 4.35 percent.
Across the Pacific, the major U.S. indicators experienced a collective rise on Friday, buoyed by the June Personal Consumer Expenditure Price Index, which indicated a downturn in inflation. The Core PCE exhibited a monthly increase of 0.2 percent and an annual surge of 4.1 percent, both figures falling slightly below the projected 4.2 percent growth.
Notably, the Dow displayed its resilience, recording a commendable 0.5 percent gain. The S&P 500, standing in harmony with its counterpart, also marked a solid 0.5 percent rise. However, the Nasdaq Composite took the lead with an astonishing 1.90 percent leap, ending the week on a strong note.
In conclusion, despite China’s temporary industrial woes, Asian markets demonstrated their fortitude, showcasing growth and resilience. While global economic dynamics remain subject to fluctuations and uncertainties, these market performances provide a glimmer of hope and potential for the future.
Our Reader’s Queries
What are the APAC markets?
The term APAC refers to the region of Asia-Pacific, which includes East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania.
What is the largest capital market in Asia?
As the biggest stock exchange in Asia and the third-largest in the world by market capitalization, the Shanghai Stock Exchange is a major player in the global financial market. However, it’s worth noting that it’s not fully accessible to foreign investors.
What is the largest stock exchange in Asia?
The Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) is a major player in the global stock market, ranking as the third largest exchange in the world and the largest in Asia. With over 1,500 public limited companies listed, the SSE boasts a staggering combined market capitalisation of US$6.87 trillion. Its impressive size and influence make it a key player in the world of finance and a vital component of China’s economy.
Which is Asia’s oldest stock exchange?
The Bombay Stock Exchange, or BSE Limited, is a stock exchange located on Dalal Street in Mumbai, India. Founded in 1875 by cotton merchant Premchand Roychand, it is the oldest stock exchange in Asia and the tenth oldest in the world.