Asian equities opened Friday, August 29, on a mixed note, as investors weighed currency movements, economic data, and shifting global risk sentiment. While major benchmarks in China and Japan advanced in morning trade, markets in Hong Kong and India slipped into negative territory, reflecting ongoing caution across the region.

China and Japan Lead the Upside

Chinese stocks started the day with strength. The SSE Composite Index (000001.SS) climbed 1.14% to 3,843.60, signaling renewed optimism after recent policy support from Beijing aimed at stabilizing growth and boosting investor confidence.

In Japan, the Nikkei 225 rose 0.73% to 42,828.79, extending its strong performance this week. Gains were supported by technology and industrial shares, with investor sentiment buoyed by a relatively weaker yen that enhances export competitiveness.

Currency Indexes Edge Higher

Currency markets also reflected gradual moves:

• Japanese Yen Index rose 0.41% to 68.08.
• Australian Dollar Index gained 0.35% to 65.27.

The modest strengthening of both currencies underscores a cautious but steady demand for regional assets despite global uncertainties.

Korea and Australia See Modest Gains

Elsewhere in the region, equities traded slightly higher. The KOSPI Composite Index in South Korea added 0.29% to 3,196.32, as semiconductor stocks led the advance. Meanwhile, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 rose 0.22% to 8,980.00, supported by mining and energy shares amid firmer commodity prices.

Hong Kong and India Struggle

On the downside, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index fell 0.81% to 24,998.82, as persistent property sector concerns and weaker sentiment toward Chinese tech weighed on performance. In India, the S&P BSE SENSEX dropped 0.87% to 80,080.57, with investors taking profits after recent record highs.

Key Takeaways for Investors

• China and Japan opened stronger, leading regional gains.
• Currency indexes showed measured strength in yen and Australian dollar.
• Korea and Australia posted modest gains, reflecting sector-driven momentum.
• Hong Kong and India remained under pressure, signaling uneven risk appetite.

Outlook for the Day

As Friday’s session unfolds, traders will be closely monitoring U.S. futures, European market signals, and any new policy commentary from Asian central banks. With global growth concerns persisting and geopolitical risks still present, volatility may remain elevated heading into the weekend.

Overall, the morning session illustrates the divergence across Asia’s financial markets: while policy-driven optimism supports China and Japan, persistent headwinds in Hong Kong and India highlight ongoing challenges for investors seeking clarity in regional growth prospects.