Asia stocks rise as S&P 500 hits record; focus turns to Australia inflation
Asia stocks rise as S&P 500 hits record; focus turns to Australia inflation
Asian markets are set to edge higher after Wall Street's record close, with traders watching Australia's inflation data for clues on policy.
Markets in Asia were set to open higher on Tuesday after Wall Street finished at a fresh record, giving regional equities a buoyant send-off. Futures pointed to gains across major benchmarks as investors digest the pace of earnings and the possibility of continued liquidity support from global markets.
A focal point for traders is Australia’s upcoming inflation data, which is expected to influence bets on interest-rate paths and currency moves. If inflation cools, rate expectations could soften, providing a cushion for equities; if it surprises to the upside, risk appetite could waver.
The tailwinds from a record S&P 500 have helped lift risk assets worldwide, with money flowing into Asian shares and other higher-beta assets as investors look for opportunities in a brisk IPO environment and cross-border capital.
Despite the positive tone, strategists warn that the path ahead depends on U.S. policy signals and global growth, and the data calendar is full in the coming weeks.
