Asian stocks eke gains dollar nears nine month high

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Asian Stocks Eke Out Gains as Dollar Nears 9-Month High

Asian stocks managed to eke out gains on Tuesday, despite the dollar's strength, as investors remained optimistic about the global economy. The dollar index, which tracks the greenback against a basket of six major currencies, rose to its highest level in nearly nine months, fueled by expectations of a rate hike by the US Federal Reserve.

Market Performance

In Asia, the MSCI Asia ex-Japan index rose 0.2%, led by gains in Hong Kong and South Korea. The Shanghai Composite Index in China added 0.1%, while the Nikkei 225 in Japan was flat.

Sector Performance

Technology and financial stocks were among the top performers, with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and Samsung Electronics Co. leading the gains. In Hong Kong, HSBC Holdings Plc and Bank of China Ltd. rose.

Economic Data

The dollar's strength was driven by a report showing that US consumer prices rose more than expected in August, boosting expectations of a rate hike by the Fed. The US Labor Department reported that the consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.4% in August, beating forecasts of a 0.3% gain.

Investor Sentiment

Despite the dollar's strength, investors remained optimistic about the global economy, with many expecting a rate hike by the Fed to boost the US economy. The yield on the 10-year US Treasury note rose to 2.94%, its highest level since July.

Conclusion

Asian stocks managed to eke out gains on Tuesday, despite the dollar's strength, as investors remained optimistic about the global economy. The dollar's rise was driven by expectations of a rate hike by the Fed, but investors remained focused on the positive outlook for the global economy.