Major stock market indexes in the Asia-Pacific region traded flat to higher on Thursday after Japan posted an annual rise of 4.2% and a monthly one of 0.3% in producer prices. Meanwhile, the archipelago country was reported to be planning a high-level diplomatic meeting with China and South Korea. Additionally, investors awaited Sony Group Corporation's latest earnings results.
Japan's Nikkei 225 surged by 1.33% or 518 points at 7:12 am CET as the dollar lost 0.23% to the yen to sell for ¥154.0725. South Korea's Kospi increased by 1.32% at 7:13 am CET. Australia's S&P/ASX 200 closed flat.
In mainland China, the Shanghai Composite stood flat at 6:58 am CET, as did the Shenzhen Composite a minute later. In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng jumped by 2.82% or 619 points at 7:13 am CET.
