Asian markets mostly rose despite Wall Street’s recent decline, as anxious investors brace for potential volatility following the US election.
The week holds multiple potential triggers, notably Election Day in the United States. However, a delay in results could impact market stability as officials work to count every vote.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 index climbed 1.4% to 38,571.64 after reopening from Monday’s holiday.
South Korea’s Kospi slipped 0.4% to 2,578.50, following reports from the country’s military that North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles into the eastern sea, continuing its demonstrations ahead of the US election.
Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 dropped 0.4% to 8,131.80, with the central bank holding its benchmark interest rate steady.
In China, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress is meeting this week, with anticipated government endorsements for significant spending measures aimed at boosting economic growth amidst ongoing issues in the real-estate sector.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng surged 1.4% to 20,853.45, while the Shanghai Composite index rose 1.9% to 3,373.30.
On Monday, the S&P 500 dipped 0.3% to 5,712.69, close to last month’s record. The Dow Jones Industrial Average decreased 0.6% to 41,794.60, and the Nasdaq Composite edged down 0.3% to 18,179.98.
