Asian financial markets had varied results on Thursday, as investors cautiously awaited crucial U.S. inflation data and a speech from Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell on Friday.
The Australian market notably advanced, continuing its growth from the previous trading day. This rise was stimulated by generally beneficial global market trends. The primary S&P/ASX 200 Index escalated by 77.30 points or 1.0 percent to 7,896.90, even touching a record-breaking intraday high of 7,901.20. Simultaneously, the comprehensive All Ordinaries Index escalated by 80.10 points or 1.0 percent to 8,153.70.
Contrastingly, Japanese stocks significantly declined, offsetting the gains achieved in the prior session. The Nikkei 225 Index plunged by 594.66 points or 1.5 percent to 40,168.07. This trend was visible across most sectors as some investors decided to secure profits following recent market strength.
In contrast, Chinese stocks presented a different narrative, registering growth. The Shanghai Composite Index grew by 17.52 points or 0.6 percent concluding at 3,010.66. The Hang Seng Index in Hong Kong also observed growth, increasing by 148.58 points or 0.9 percent to finish the day at 16,541.42.
New Zealand's primary S&P/NZX 50 Index also grew by 94.63 points or 0.8 percent, closing at 12,105.29. On the other hand, South Korea's Kospi declined by 9.29 points or 0.3 percent closing at 2,745.82.
