As Thursday’s session unfolds, Asian markets are showing uneven momentum amid shifting investor sentiment. With several key economies releasing earnings and policy signals this week, traders are positioning carefully before the next round of data from the U.S. and China.

South Korea Leads Gains as Tech Stocks Strengthen

South Korea’s KOSPI Composite Index rose 1.56% to 3,883.68, driven by strong performances in semiconductor and technology shares. The rebound reflects optimism that global chip demand will continue to improve through the fourth quarter. Investor appetite has been supported by positive earnings guidance from leading Korean tech firms, helping offset concerns about global trade headwinds.

Japan and Australia Edge Lower Amid Currency Pressure

Japan’s Nikkei 225 slipped 0.02% to 49,307.79 as a stronger yen weighed on exporters. The Japanese Yen Index eased 0.02%, reflecting cautious trading ahead of next week’s Bank of Japan policy review. Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 in Australia dropped 0.31% to 9,002.00, with weakness in the energy and materials sectors offsetting gains in financials. The Australian Dollar Index was marginally higher at 64.91, suggesting currency traders remain on edge amid global dollar movements.

China and Hong Kong Lag Behind as Growth Worries Persist

China’s Shanghai Composite (000001.SS) slipped 0.07% to 3,913.76, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index fell sharply by 0.94% to 25,781.77. Investors remain cautious amid persistent concerns about China’s property sector and the pace of its economic recovery. Despite Beijing’s targeted stimulus efforts, confidence in the broader equity market has yet to fully recover. Regional fund managers say foreign inflows are likely to remain subdued until stronger consumer and manufacturing data emerge.

India’s Sensex Inches Higher; Thailand Market Closed

India’s S&P BSE Sensex added 0.07% to 84,426.34, reflecting modest gains in the financial and IT sectors. Domestic investors continue to bet on India’s resilient growth trajectory despite global volatility. Meanwhile, trading volume across the region is lighter than usual as Thailand’s Stock Exchange is closed today in observance of Chulalongkorn Day.

Outlook: Watching Earnings and Policy Clarity

Looking ahead, investors across Asia will focus on incoming corporate earnings and monetary policy developments from major central banks. The strength of the U.S. dollar, China’s stimulus trajectory, and Japan’s inflation data will be key drivers for sentiment. While the current mixed performance highlights regional divergence, any clarity on interest rates or trade outlook could set the tone for the next leg of market direction.