ASX 200 Edges Higher as Asia-Pacific Markets React to Key Economic Data

June 30, 2025 02:46 PM AEST | By Team Kalkine Media

ASX 200 Edges Higher as Asia-Pacific Markets React to Key Economic Data — Image source: Shutterstock

China’s Manufacturing Activity Contracts Again

Mainland Chinese markets saw restrained movement as data revealed a continued contraction in the country’s manufacturing sector for the third consecutive month. The CSI 300 index remained largely flat, reflecting cautious sentiment amid discussions around additional government measures aimed at stabilising economic growth.

The reading added weight to expectations for future stimulus from Beijing, especially as the country’s trade landscape faces headwinds linked to global supply dynamics and external policy pressure.

Japan and South Korea Show Resilience

Japanese equities climbed, led by the Nikkei 225 reaching its highest point in nearly a year. Gains were attributed to strength in industrial names and encouraging production data for May. The broader Topix index also moved higher, contributing to the overall momentum on Tokyo’s bourse.

In South Korea, the Kospi index gained as industrial output signalled continued recovery, supported by steady performance in manufacturing and chip-related segments. The Kosdaq index, which tracks small-cap shares, also edged up in choppy trading.

Hong Kong Slides While Australia and India Stay Range-Bound

The Hang Seng Index in Hong Kong slipped slightly as local sentiment grappled with external economic pressures and investor repositioning. Meanwhile, Indian markets, including the Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex, traded flat through early sessions as traders awaited cues from upcoming policy data.

Australia’s ASX 200 posted a mild rise, led by energy and materials stocks, mirroring regional optimism. The gains came amid a relatively quiet domestic calendar, with attention turning toward international developments to guide short-term direction.

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