Asia Markets Open Higher Amid Holiday-Thinned Trade
Asia markets opened higher on Friday, December 26, 2025, amid holiday-thinned trade. The Nikkei 225 in Japan rose 0.5%, while the Kospi in South Korea gained 0.7%. The CSI 300 in China climbed 0.8% [1].
The trading session was marked by a lack of major economic data releases, with many markets closed for the Boxing Day holiday. However, the gains were driven by a rally in technology stocks, with the Hang Seng Tech Index in Hong Kong surging 1.2% [1].
The market sentiment was also boosted by the release of a report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which upgraded its forecast for global economic growth in 2026. The IMF now expects the global economy to grow at a rate of 3.5%, up from its previous forecast of 3.2% [1].
Despite the gains, the market remains cautious ahead of the release of key economic data in the coming weeks. The US Federal Reserve is set to release its latest monetary policy decision on January 3, 2026, which could have a significant impact on the market [1].
In the meantime, investors are keeping a close eye on the developments in the US-China trade talks. The two countries have been engaged in a series of high-level talks in recent weeks, with the aim of resolving their trade disputes [1].
The market is also watching the developments in the Middle East, where tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia have been escalating in recent days. The conflict has the potential to disrupt global oil supplies and impact the global economy [1].
Overall, the market is expected to remain volatile in the coming weeks, with a range of factors influencing the direction of trade. However, the gains on Friday provided a welcome boost to investors, who are looking for signs of stability in the market [1].