Asian markets remained broadly firm on September 22, 2026, although the pace of gains slowed considerably from the previous session. Japan continued to provide strength, while Australia, Hong Kong, South Korea and mainland China also moved higher. India and the region’s reported currency indexes moved lower, creating a more mixed trading pattern across Asia.

Japan Remains at the Center of Regional Strength

The Nikkei 225 rose 1.38% to 65,018.95, matching the level reported on September 21 and remaining firmly above the 65,000 threshold. The benchmark has now held above that level during the latest recovery, following its earlier September decline toward 63,000.

The continued strength in Japanese equities contrasts with the Japanese Yen Index, which fell 0.27% to 63.58. The yen remained below 64.00 after declining 0.56% in the previous session, maintaining the recent divergence between Japanese stocks and the currency.

Australia and Hong Kong Post Modest Gains

The S&P/ASX 200 advanced 0.30% to 8,757.80, extending its gradual recovery after several sessions below 8,800. The benchmark remains well below the 9,000 level reached earlier in September, but the latest gain keeps the short-term direction positive.

The Hang Seng gained 0.18% to 25,087.75, holding above 25,000 after crossing that threshold in the previous session. The modest advance suggests continued stability around the level following the index’s earlier September volatility.

South Korea and China Hold Higher Ground

The KOSPI Composite Index edged 0.15% higher to 7,017.91, remaining above 7,000 for a second consecutive session. The benchmark’s ability to hold this threshold follows its strong recovery from the sharp declines recorded earlier in September.

The SSE Composite Index added just 0.06% to 3,952.13. The benchmark remains close to 4,000, although the limited gain indicates that momentum has slowed after the stronger advances recorded at the end of last week and on September 21.

India Moves Lower

The S&P BSE SENSEX declined 0.26% to 74,661.08, giving back part of its 0.82% gain from September 21. The benchmark remains below 75,000 despite its recent recovery attempt.

The Australian Dollar Index also slipped 0.06% to 71.21, leaving both reported currency indexes lower for the session. The modest currency declines contrast with the generally positive performance across Asian equity markets.

Outlook

The September 22 session shows Asian markets maintaining their recent recovery while momentum becomes more selective. The Nikkei remains above 65,000, the KOSPI above 7,000, the Hang Seng above 25,000 and the SSE Composite near 4,000. These thresholds provide important reference points for the next sessions. The Sensex remains below 75,000, while the yen continues to trade below 64.00, leaving currency movements as an additional factor to monitor as regional equities consolidate their recent gains.