Japan’s Nikkei 225 benchmark index crossed the 45,000-point mark for the first time on Monday, setting a new record high and leading Asia-Pacific markets. The rally came after former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that U.S.-China trade negotiations in Spain were making positive progress.
However, optimism over trade was partly overshadowed by news from U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who announced a “framework” deal on the divestment of Chinese-owned TikTok. Speaking from Madrid, Bessent confirmed that the commercial terms had already been settled. Both Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are scheduled to speak on Friday to discuss the details.
Alongside the Nikkei, Japan’s Topix index rose 0.41% to a record high of 3,172.33.
In South Korea, the Kospi surged to its second straight record after the government reversed its plan to hike capital gains tax on stocks. Among the top gainers were:
Kolon Mobility Group: +29.91%
Il Dong Pharmaceutical: +18.16%
Nongshim (instant noodles maker): +16.78%
Meanwhile, the Kosdaq small-cap index slipped 0.18%.
Elsewhere, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 gained 0.26%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index retreated 0.13% and China’s CSI 300 fell 0.28%.
Overnight in the U.S., major indices closed higher as investors awaited this week’s Federal Reserve policy meeting:
S&P 500: +0.5%, finishing at 6,615.28, its first close above 6,600.
Nasdaq Composite: +0.9%, hitting a new all-time high of 22,348.75.
Dow Jones Industrial Average: +49.23 points (+0.1%), ending at 45,883.45.
While Asian markets are showing strong momentum, analysts highlight several points investors should keep in mind:
Global policy impact: U.S.-China trade talks and upcoming Federal Reserve decisions may heavily influence short-term sentiment.
Short-term volatility: Record highs could trigger profit-taking in the near term.
Long-term opportunities: Japan and South Korea stand out as attractive destinations for international capital flows, driven by stable growth prospects.
1. Why did the Nikkei 225 reach a new record high?
The surge was fueled by optimism over U.S.-China trade progress and strong foreign capital inflows into Japanese equities.
2. Which other Asian markets performed strongly?
South Korea’s Kospi was a highlight, hitting another record after the government scrapped its planned capital gains tax hike.
3. Why did Hong Kong and mainland Chinese stocks fall?
Lingering macroeconomic uncertainties and ongoing pressure on the tech sector weighed on the Hang Seng and CSI 300.
4. How did U.S. markets perform?
The S&P 500 and Nasdaq closed at fresh records, while the Dow Jones posted a modest gain ahead of the Federal Reserve meeting.
5. What should investors be cautious about?
Key risks include trade negotiations, Fed policy shifts, and short-term market pullbacks. Long-term investors may find opportunities in resilient Asian markets like Japan and South Korea.
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