Asia-Pacific Markets React to Economic Data

Asia-Pacific markets showed mixed reactions on Friday, following the release of significant economic data from Japan and China. The Japanese Cabinet Office reported a 0.3% year-on-year growth in domestic production for the second quarter of 2025, setting a cautious yet optimistic tone for the region.

China's Economic Indicators Show Growth

Meanwhile, the Chinese National Bureau of Statistics unveiled figures indicating a 5.7% increase in industrial production, alongside a 3.7% rise in retail sales for July. However, the unemployment rate edged up to 5.2%, reflecting the complex dynamics of China's economic recovery.

Market Movements Across the Region

Hong Kong's Hang Seng index fell by 1.19%, while Japan's Nikkei 225 gained 0.86%. Mainland China's Shanghai Composite remained flat, but the Shenzhen Composite added 0.60%. Australia's S&P/ASX 200 saw a modest increase of 0.27%. South Korea's Kospi was closed for a holiday, and the dollar weakened slightly against the yen.