Asian markets opened Friday with mixed performances as investors weighed signals from U.S. inflation data, renewed oil price volatility, and a cautious tone from major central banks. The uneven start across Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Sydney reflected lingering uncertainty over global growth and monetary policy direction heading into the final quarter of the year.
Japan sees cautious optimism
Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 edged higher in early trade, supported by gains in technology and automotive shares. Export-oriented sectors benefited from a slightly weaker yen, which hovered near ¥149 per dollar. Analysts noted that while investor sentiment improved following softer U.S. inflation figures, concerns remain about the Bank of Japan’s potential policy adjustments later this month.
China and Hong Kong struggle for momentum
In contrast, the Hang Seng Index in Hong Kong opened lower, dragged down by property and financial stocks. Mainland China’s Shanghai Composite was also subdued as traders digested fresh credit data showing slower loan growth in September. Market observers said investors continue to watch for stronger policy support from Beijing to stabilise the struggling property sector and revive domestic demand.
Australia and South Korea show resilience
Australia’s ASX 200 opened marginally higher, buoyed by mining and energy shares after iron ore prices rebounded overnight. In Seoul, the Kospi rose modestly, helped by semiconductor stocks following upbeat earnings guidance from key U.S. peers. However, broader gains were capped by caution over weakening export demand and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.
Currencies and commodities steady
In early trading, the U.S. dollar held steady against most major Asian currencies, while oil prices stabilised after Thursday’s decline. Gold remained flat, trading near $2,360 per ounce, as investors awaited further macroeconomic signals from upcoming U.S. retail and producer price data.
Newshub Editorial in Asia – 10 October 2025
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