Asian markets ended February 24, 2026, with mixed performance as strong gains in South Korea and Japan contrasted with declines in Hong Kong and India. The session reflected divergent domestic drivers rather than a unified regional trend, with investors selectively rotating between markets.

While some exchanges extended momentum following recent volatility, others saw profit-taking pressure, highlighting uneven investor conviction across Asia.

South Korea Leads Regional Advance

South Korea’s KOSPI Composite Index surged 2.11% to 5,969.64, marking the strongest performance among major Asian benchmarks. The rally signals renewed buying interest, likely supported by gains in technology and export-oriented sectors.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 0.87% to 57,321.09, benefiting from steady investor sentiment and stable macro positioning. The Japanese Yen Index climbed 0.27% to 64.67, suggesting mild safe-haven flows. Despite the stronger yen, equities managed to post gains, indicating balanced investor confidence.

China’s SSE Composite Index also advanced 0.87% to 4,117.41, rebounding from recent declines. The recovery suggests stabilization in mainland markets as trading activity gradually normalizes following holiday disruptions.

Hong Kong and India Face Selling Pressure

In contrast, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index fell 1.79% to 26,597.05, reversing part of its recent rally. The decline may reflect profit-taking in financial and technology stocks following previous gains.

India’s S&P BSE Sensex dropped 1.32% to 82,194.74, marking one of the day’s sharpest declines. The retreat suggests repositioning by investors amid shifting global cues and domestic valuation concerns.

Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 edged down 0.04% to 9,022.30, effectively flat for the session. The Australian Dollar Index fell 0.40% to 70.56, indicating softer demand for risk-sensitive currencies and possibly weighing slightly on equity sentiment.

Currency Movements Signal Cautious Tone

Currency markets provided subtle insight into investor positioning. The strengthening yen suggests mild defensive flows, while the weaker Australian dollar points to tempered risk appetite in commodity-linked assets.

The divergence between rising equities in South Korea and Japan and declines in Hong Kong and India underscores a fragmented regional environment. Investors appear to be responding more to domestic catalysts than to broad macro themes.

Outlook

Looking ahead, markets will closely monitor whether South Korea’s strong momentum can extend and whether China’s rebound signals a more durable recovery. Hong Kong and India may attempt stabilization if global sentiment improves and capital flows normalize.

Currency stability will remain a key factor, particularly movements in the yen and Australian dollar, which influence export-driven sectors and commodity markets. Broader global economic data and central bank signals could shape investor expectations in the coming sessions.

For now, Asia’s mixed close reflects selective strength amid continued rotation across markets. Sustained upside will likely depend on consistent economic signals and improved cross-market participation as liquidity conditions continue to normalize.