Asian markets closed Wednesday, February 11, 2026, with a broadly positive tone as investor confidence remained intact following the region’s recent rally. Gains were led by Australia and South Korea, while China and Hong Kong posted modest advances. Japan’s market was closed in observance of National Founding Day, reducing liquidity in North Asia but not disrupting the overall upward trend.

The session reflected a continuation of improving risk sentiment, with investors maintaining exposure to growth and export-oriented sectors. While volatility has eased compared with last week’s swings, traders remained selective, favoring markets with strong momentum and supportive macro conditions.

Japan Closed for National Founding Day; Yen Strength Noted

The Japan – Tokyo Stock Exchange was closed for National Founding Day, resulting in no equity trading activity for the Nikkei 225 during the session. The previously recorded level of 57,650.54 reflected prior gains, but Wednesday’s market action was inactive due to the public holiday.

Despite the market closure, currency markets remained active. The Japanese Yen Index rose 0.99% to 64.78, signaling renewed strength in the currency. A stronger yen can typically pressure exporters, and investors will monitor its movement closely when trading resumes, as it may influence short-term equity positioning in Japan.

Australia and South Korea Lead Regional Gains

Australia delivered one of the session’s strongest performances, with the S&P/ASX 200 climbing 1.66% to 9,014.80. Mining, energy, and financial stocks supported the advance as investors responded positively to global demand signals. The rally pushed the index to fresh highs for the month, reflecting continued confidence in commodity-linked sectors.

South Korea also extended its upward momentum, with the KOSPI Composite Index rising 1.00% to 5,354.49. Technology and semiconductor stocks once again led gains, reinforcing Korea’s position as a regional outperformer in early 2026. The steady climb suggested that investors remain comfortable adding exposure to high-growth sectors despite recent volatility.

China and Hong Kong Post Modest Gains; India Pauses

China’s SSE Composite Index edged up 0.09% to 4,131.98, continuing its gradual recovery. Gains were limited but steady, reflecting cautious optimism tied to stable policy expectations and improving liquidity conditions. The muted advance suggested a market consolidating rather than accelerating higher.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index gained 0.27% to 27,255.43, supported by financial and select technology stocks. While the move was moderate compared with other regional markets, it underscored ongoing stabilization in China-linked assets.

India’s S&P BSE Sensex was nearly flat, slipping 0.04% to 84,239.15. The slight dip reflected consolidation after recent gains, with investors maintaining a balanced approach amid broader regional strength.

Currency Movements Mixed as Regional Sentiment Stabilizes

Currency markets presented a mixed picture. While the yen strengthened, the Australian Dollar Index slipped 0.21% to 70.75, reflecting minor pullback after recent gains. The divergence in currency performance highlighted evolving capital flows across the region, though neither move significantly disrupted equity momentum.

Overall, currency volatility remained contained, helping preserve investor confidence and allowing equities to continue advancing without major external pressure.

Outlook: Momentum Continues, but Selectivity Remains Key

Looking ahead, Asian markets appear to be building a more stable upward trend following recent turbulence. When Japan’s market reopens, investors will assess whether yen strength influences exporter performance and broader sentiment. Regional focus will remain on economic data releases, corporate earnings updates, and global central bank guidance.

While gains have been steady, investors are likely to remain selective, favoring sectors with strong earnings visibility and supportive macro conditions. If currency movements stay orderly and global growth expectations remain firm, Asia’s rally could extend further into mid-February, though periodic consolidation phases remain likely after recent strong advances.