Asian Stock Market Mixed on US Tariff Relief

The **Nikkei 225** is a prominent Japanese stock market index that measures the performance of **225 large, publicly traded companies** listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE). Established on July 9, 1950, it is Japan’s oldest and most widely recognized stock index, serving as a key barometer for the Japanese economy and a benchmark for investors globally[1][3][5]. Unlike market-capitalization-weighted indices, the Nikkei 225 is **price-weighted**, meaning companies with higher stock prices exert a greater influence on the index's movement. This characteristic makes it unique compared to indices like the S&P 500. The index includes major multinational corporations such as **Toyota, Sony, Panasonic, Canon, and Nissan**, spanning across 35 to 36 industries, with technology and industrial sectors being the most heavily weighted[1][2][3][6]. Historically, the Nikkei 225 has reflected Japan’s post-war economic recovery and subsequent boom periods. It gained global prominence as Japan emerged as an economic powerhouse. The index experienced a prolonged decline after the 1990s asset bubble burst but began recovering gradually, reaching a milestone near 40,000 points in early 2024, a level unseen in 34 years, signaling renewed investor confidence and economic strength[5]. The Nikkei 225 is reviewed annually in September, with adjustments implemented in October to ensure it reflects current market conditions. It serves multiple roles: an economic indicator for policymakers, a sentiment gauge for investors, and the basis for various financial products such as ETFs and futures contracts, facilitating market access to Japan’s economy as a whole[1][2][7][8]. Notably, the Bank of Japan has played a significant role in the index’s recent history by holding a large share of ETFs linked to the Nikkei, influencing market dynamics. The Nikkei 225 remains a vital tool for tracking Japan’s economic health an

## Overview Nikkei, formally known as Nihon Keizai Shimbun (日本経済新聞), is Japan’s leading business and financial newspaper and the flagship publication of Nikkei, Inc.[1][2][3] It is recognized as the world’s largest financial newspaper by circulation, with over 1.7 million daily copies, and is one of Japan’s four major national dailies.[1][3] The organization’s influence extends beyond print, encompassing digital media, broadcasting, research, and global business news. ## History Nikkei’s origins trace back to 1876, when Mitsui & Company launched the Chugai Bukka Shimpo (“Domestic and Foreign Commodity Price Newspaper”) to report on market prices during Japan’s rapid industrialization in the Meiji era.[1][3][4] The paper evolved through several name changes and mergers, becoming the Nihon Keizai Shimbun in 1946.[1][2] The Nikkei 225, Japan’s premier stock market index, has been calculated by the newspaper since 1950 and remains a key barometer of the Japanese economy.[1][6] ## Key Achievements Nikkei’s reputation is built on comprehensive, impartial coverage of commerce, industry, finance, and economic policy.[3] The organization pioneered digital subscriptions in Japan and Asia, staying ahead in media innovation.[4] A landmark achievement was Nikkei, Inc.’s acquisition of the Financial Times in 2015, significantly expanding its global footprint and cementing its status as a major player in international business journalism.[2][3] Nikkei also owns TV Tokyo and publishes Nikkei Asia, further broadening its media reach.[2] ## Current Status Today, Nikkei, Inc. is an employee-owned media conglomerate with diverse interests in newspapers, magazines, books, digital platforms, broadcasting, and research services.

The Shanghai Composite Index, commonly referred to as the SSE Composite Index, is a pivotal stock market index that tracks the performance of all A and B shares listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE), the largest stock exchange in mainland China. Established in July 1991 with a base value of 100, this index provides a comprehensive overview of the Chinese stock market, serving as a benchmark for investors and analysts worldwide[1][2][3]. ### History and Development Launched on July 15, 1991, the Shanghai Composite Index was designed to reflect the overall performance of the Shanghai securities market, marking a significant milestone in China's capital market development[5]. Over the years, the index has evolved to include a diverse range of industries such as finance, technology, and consumer goods, ensuring a balanced representation of the Chinese economy[4]. ### Key Achievements and Role As a capitalization-weighted index, the Shanghai Composite emphasizes the market influence of larger companies, making it a crucial indicator of market trends and economic conditions in China[1][4]. It is widely used for forecasting and economic analysis, supporting regulatory and policy decisions[2]. Despite its importance, it is noted that the index may not fully reflect the overall Chinese economy due to the presence of non-traded state-owned enterprises[1]. ### Current Status and Notable Aspects Currently, the Shanghai Composite Index consists of over 1,500 companies, with constituents reviewed semi-annually based on market capitalization and liquidity[1]. The index is calculated using a market capitalization-weighted method, ensuring that larger companies have a greater impact on its performance[4]. Notably, the SSE hosts several of the world's largest companies, including the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China[3]. As a global financial hub, the Shanghai Composite plays a significant role in influencing national and international economic trends[3].

Hang Seng is a prominent financial institution in Hong Kong, founded on March 3, 1933, by entrepreneurs Lam Bing-yim, Ho Sin-hang, Leung Chik-wai, and Sheng Chun-lin[1]. Initially named "Hang Seng Ngan Ho," it was later renamed Hang Seng Bank in 1960. The name "Hang Seng" symbolizes "ever-growing," reflecting the bank's commitment to growth and customer partnership[1]. **History and Achievements:** Hang Seng Bank has a rich history, with its founders establishing it during a time of free travel and business exchange between Hong Kong and mainland China. The bank played a crucial role in creating the Hang Seng Index (HSI) in 1969, which serves as Hong Kong's primary stock market indicator[2]. The HSI is now managed by Hang Seng Indexes Company Limited, a subsidiary of Hang Seng Bank. **Current Status:** Today, Hang Seng Bank is a leading financial institution in Hong Kong, with a significant market capitalization exceeding HKD200 billion[1]. It operates a vast network of over 250 service outlets in Hong Kong and has a subsidiary in mainland China, providing comprehensive banking services to both local and cross-boundary customers[5]. Hang Seng is a principal member of the HSBC Group, one of the world's largest banking organizations[5]. **Notable Aspects:** Hang Seng is known for its innovative approach to banking, incorporating technology to enhance customer experiences. For instance, it transformed its headquarters by creating a modern digital floor that fosters collaboration and innovation[4]. Additionally, Hang Seng Investment Management Limited, a subsidiary, has been at the forefront of launching pioneering financial products such as ETFs and RMB-denominated funds[3]. The bank also emphasizes community engagement through social and environmental initiatives[5]. Overall, Hang Seng's blend of tradition, innovation, and

## Introduction to KOSPI The Korean Composite Stock Price Index, commonly referred to as KOSPI, is a pivotal financial indicator in South Korea, serving as a barometer for the nation's stock market performance. It is a capitalization-weighted index that tracks the performance of all common shares listed on the Korean Stock Exchange. ## History and Evolution KOSPI was introduced in the early 1980s as a replacement for the Korean Composite Stock Price Index (KCSPI), marking a significant milestone in South Korea's financial landscape. Over the years, KOSPI has expanded to include various sub-indexes such as the KOSPI 200, which comprises the top 200 publicly traded companies, accounting for approximately 70% of the total market value of the Korean Stock Exchange[2][4]. ## Key Achievements One of KOSPI's notable achievements is its role in reflecting South Korea's economic growth and stability. Major companies like Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor, and Shinhan Bank are integral components of the KOSPI 200, influencing the index's performance significantly[2]. Additionally, KOSPI has facilitated foreign investment by offering a transparent and liquid market environment, making it an attractive destination for international investors[5]. ## Current Status As of recent data, the KOSPI Market hosts over 839 listed companies, with a total market capitalization exceeding KRW 2,075 trillion (approximately US$1.60 trillion), marking a significant year-on-year increase[5]. The KRX, where KOSPI is listed, is one of the most liquid markets in the Asia-Pacific region, with substantial growth in trade volume since 2020[5]. ## Notable Aspects KOSPI is not just an economic indicator; it also reflects broader trends in South Korea, such as technological innovation and demographic changes. The index's performance is closely monitored by investors interested in the dynamic South Korean market, which is increasingly influenced by themes

The S&P/ASX 200 is a premier stock market index in Australia, launched on March 31, 2000, by S&P Dow Jones Indices. It serves as a benchmark for the Australian equity market, representing the performance of the top 200 companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) by float-adjusted market capitalization. This index is crucial for investors, analysts, and institutions, providing a comprehensive view of the country's economic health. ### History and Development The S&P/ASX 200 was introduced to replace the All Ordinaries index as the primary gauge for the Australian equity market. It has since become a widely followed and respected benchmark, reflecting the market's evolution through quarterly rebalancing. This process ensures that the index remains representative of the market's largest and most liquid companies. ### Key Achievements - **Benchmark Status**: The S&P/ASX 200 is widely regarded as Australia's preeminent benchmark index, covering approximately 80% of the country's equity market capitalization[4][6]. - **Diversification Tool**: It offers investors a diversified portfolio by including a broad range of industries such as finance, materials, healthcare, and consumer goods[8]. - **Performance Measure**: The index serves as a yardstick for comparing the performance of individual stocks and portfolios[4]. ### Current Status Today, the S&P/ASX 200 is a cornerstone of the Australian financial landscape. It is reviewed quarterly in March, June, September, and December to ensure its composition remains aligned with market conditions[7]. The index is float-adjusted, meaning it considers only the freely tradable shares of a company, enhancing its liquidity and tradability[6]. ### Notable Aspects - **Market Representation**: The index provides a solid approximation of the broader Australian economy, making it a valuable tool for investors and analysts[4]. - **Inclusivity**: It includes both domestic and foreign-domic