adminHONG KONG. — Asian markets firmed on Friday as a slew of upbeat manufacturing data from around the globe offset concerns about the US Federal Reserve’s plans for its stimulus programme.The positive lead provided a much-needed boost for emerging economies, which have suffered a torrid week as dealers bet on an end to the Fed’s monetary easing that has fuelled an investment splurge in Asia.
Tokyo jumped 2,21 percent thanks to a rally in the dollar against the yen, ending 295,38 points higher at 13 660,55. At one point the index was more than three percent higher.
Sydney climbed 0,94 percent, or 47,7 points, to 5 123,4 and Seoul added 1,14 percent, or 21,04 points, to end at 1 870,16.
However, profit-taking sent Hong Kong lower, ending down 0,15 percent, or 31,89 points, at 21 863,51 while Shanghai eased 0,47 percent, shedding 9,66 points to 2 057,46.
In late trade Jakarta was up 0,10 percent while Kuala Lumpur climbed 0,20 percent and the Sensex in Mumbai was 0,88 percent higher.
Manila closed 0,40 percent higher, adding 24,48 points to 6 161,20.
Dealers were given a positive lead from markets in Europe and the United States, which soared on strong data that illustrated a pick-up in economic fortunes. — AFP.
Online Reporter