InfoSAWIT, HONG KONG – Most Asian stock markets closed higher on Friday, supported by cautious optimism following mixed performances on Wall Street and ahead of key U.S. economic data releases.

Regional sentiment was lifted by gains in Japanese blue-chip stocks and a strong debut by a Chinese technology firm. Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose about 1.1%, led by a surge of more than 7% in Fast Retailing shares after the Uniqlo owner reported strong quarterly operating profit growth and upgraded its full-year outlook.

According to Reuters on Friday (January 9, 2026), other major indices also posted gains. China’s Shanghai Composite Index climbed 0.3% after December inflation data showed accelerating consumer prices, signaling improving domestic demand. South Korea’s Kospi and Taiwan’s Taiex also recorded modest gains.

In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng Index was nearly flat, reflecting cautious investor sentiment amid ongoing global uncertainties.

Australian stocks edged lower, with the S&P/ASX 200 slipping slightly as mining shares declined following confirmation that Rio Tinto is in early merger talks with rival Glencore.

Wall Street trading remained subdued overnight, although defense stocks rallied after former U.S. President Donald Trump signaled plans to increase military spending, boosting shares of major defense contractors. (T2)