Asia-Pacific markets are poised for a rebound on Thursday following several days of steep losses, with investor sentiment improving after overnight gains on Wall Street and easing concerns about surging oil prices [1]. Australia's S&P/ASX 200 opened 0.63% higher, while futures for Japan's Nikkei 225 indicated a stronger start, with the Chicago contract at 56,360 and Osaka at 56,380, compared to the previous close of 54,245.54 [1]. Hong Kong's Hang Seng index futures were at 25,534, above the last close of 25,249.48 [1].
A key focus is on South Korea, where the Kospi index experienced a dramatic 12% plunge on Wednesday, marking its worst single-day decline [1]. Investors are closely watching for signs of stabilization and potential recovery in the region. Additionally, attention is centered on China's "Two Sessions" policy meeting, which began on Wednesday. Top policymakers are expected to announce growth targets and stimulus plans for the year, which could have significant implications for regional markets [1].
Overnight in the United States, stocks rose, reversing a three-day losing streak for the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which gained 238.14 points (0.49%) to close at 48,739.41 [1]. The S&P 500 increased by 0.78% to 6,869.50, and the Nasdaq Composite advanced 1.29% to 22,807.48 [1]. Technology stocks, especially those in the semiconductor sector, led the gains, with Micron Technology and Advanced Micro Devices each rising more than 5%, and Broadcom and Nvidia climbing over 1% [1].
The improvement in global market sentiment was attributed to the pullback in oil prices following developments in the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and fading fears of a U.S. economic growth scare [1].
CONCLUSION
Asia-Pacific markets are set to rebound after steep losses, with improved sentiment driven by Wall Street gains and easing oil price concerns. The Kospi's sharp decline and China's ongoing policy meeting remain key areas of investor focus. Technology stocks led the U.S. market recovery, signaling positive momentum for global equities.