Asian markets are set to rise after the S&P 500 and Nasdaq both marked their highest close since August. Investors will be closely watching Japan’s inflation figures, which could determine the country’s central bank monetary policy path forward.
The Nikkei 225 index in Japan is expected to open higher following a positive lead from Wall Street overnight, where tech stocks continued their strong run into 2021. The S&P 500 closed up 0.5%, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 1%.
Inflation data released by Tokyo later today will be key for investors as it could influence future decisions of Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda regarding quantitative easing measures or other stimulus packages designed to boost economic growth in the country. If inflation remains below 2% then further action may be taken by Kuroda and his team at BOJ headquarters, potentially providing a much-needed boost for Japanese equities going forward this year.
Overall, Asian markets look poised for gains today with investors hoping that any potential additional stimulus announced by BOJ would help bolster investor confidence across Asia’s second-largest economy over the coming months.
Read more at CNBC