Asian markets ended February 27, 2026, with a mixed performance as gains in Hong Kong and mainland China contrasted with declines in South Korea and India. Trading activity was slightly lighter due to Taiwan’s market closure for Peace Memorial Day, limiting full regional participation.

The session reflected selective positioning, with investors rotating between markets rather than moving uniformly across the region.

Hong Kong and China Post Moderate Gains

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index rose 0.95% to 26,630.54, leading gains among major benchmarks. The advance suggests renewed buying interest following recent volatility, particularly in financial and technology-linked sectors.

China’s SSE Composite Index gained 0.39% to 4,162.88, indicating continued stabilization in mainland equities. The steady performance signals cautious optimism as investors assess domestic economic momentum and policy signals.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 edged up 0.16% to 58,850.27, extending its upward bias. The Japanese Yen Index rose 0.17% to 64.07, reflecting slight strengthening in the currency. Despite the firmer yen, equities maintained modest gains, suggesting balanced investor sentiment.

Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 climbed 0.25% to 9,198.60, supported by stable performance in financial and resource sectors. However, the Australian Dollar Index slipped 0.25% to 71.03, signaling mild currency softness.

Korea and India Weigh on Regional Tone

South Korea’s KOSPI Composite Index fell 1.00% to 6,244.13, marking one of the session’s sharper declines. The pullback may reflect profit-taking after recent strong rallies or sector-specific weakness in technology shares.

India’s S&P BSE Sensex dropped 1.32% to 81,164.72, representing the largest decline among major markets today. The weakness suggests repositioning amid shifting global cues and valuation adjustments in domestic equities.

The divergence between advancing markets in Greater China and declines in South Korea and India highlights the fragmented nature of current Asian trading conditions.

Taiwan Market Closed for Peace Memorial Day

The Taiwan Stock Exchange remained closed in observance of Peace Memorial Day, a national holiday. The closure slightly reduced overall regional trading volume and limited cross-market participation, particularly in technology-related sectors where Taiwan plays a key role.

With one of Asia’s important financial centers offline, liquidity remained somewhat constrained compared to fully active sessions.

Outlook

Looking ahead, investors will monitor whether gains in Hong Kong and China can extend into broader regional momentum. Stabilization in South Korea and India will be crucial for achieving a more synchronized advance across Asia.

Currency movements, especially in the yen and Australian dollar, will continue to influence export-driven sectors. Global economic data and central bank commentary may further shape investor positioning in the coming sessions.

For now, February 27 reflects a market environment defined by selective strength, regional divergence, and modest holiday-related liquidity effects. Broader participation in upcoming sessions will likely determine whether Asia builds on today’s gains or enters a renewed phase of consolidation.