Asian stock markets echoed the optimism on Wall Street, opening with gains on Thursday. The positive sentiment followed the US markets reaching new record highs, fueled by a combination of factors.
One key driver was the strong performance of US technology shares. The surge in these tech titans, often referred to as the "Magnificent Seven, " propelled the S&P 500 to its 25th record close this year. This positive momentum in the US tech sector spilled over into Asian markets, particularly those with a strong technology presence.
Another factor influencing Asian markets was the recent steps taken by China to stabilize its property market. After a period of turbulence, the Chinese government implemented measures aimed at shoring up the sector. This move instilled some confidence in investors, particularly regarding the overall health of the Chinese economy, which has a significant impact on the regional market performance.
The upcoming US jobs report also played a role in shaping market sentiment. While Wednesday's private payrolls data indicated a slowdown in hiring compared to earlier in the year, it was balanced by the robust expansion of the services sector, suggesting a multifaceted economic picture. Investors are closely watching these indicators to gauge the strength of the US economy and its potential impact on global markets.
Adding to the positive atmosphere was the news of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi securing crucial backing from key allies. This political stability within India, a major Asian economy, further buoyed investor confidence in the region's overall prospects.
The regional benchmark, the MSCI Asia Pacific Index, extended its winning streak to six consecutive days, its longest run of gains this year. Stock markets in Hong Kong, mainland China, Japan, and Australia all witnessed positive movement in the opening hours.
However, some underlying concerns lingered. The path of US Federal Reserve interest rates remained a point of focus, with markets currently anticipating two rate cuts in 2024. Additionally, the recent volatility in the yen, a common currency used in carry trades, created a cautious undercurrent in the markets.
Overall, Asian markets responded favorably to the positive cues from Wall Street and regional developments. While some uncertainties persist, the current sentiment leans towards cautious optimism.