Stocks in Asia Pacific were mixed on Thursday as worse-than-expected U.S. economic data raised expectations the U.S. Federal Reserve could cut interest rates at its upcoming July meeting.
In Japan, the Nikkei 225 rebounded 64.24 points, or 0.3%, to 21,702.45, as shares of index heavyweight Softbank Group jumped more than 3%
The Japanese yen traded at 107.79 against the U.S. dollar after strengthening from levels around 108.5 seen earlier this week.
In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng index dropped 59.37 points, or 0.2%, to 28,795.77
The Australian dollar was at $0.7030 U.S. after rising from levels below $0.699 yesterday.
CHINA
In Shanghai, the CSI 300 slumped 20.43 points, or 0.5%, to 3,873.10.
White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said Wednesday that face-to-face negotiations between the U.S. and China would begin "soon."
Investors are watching for developments as the two economic powerhouses remain locked in a trade fight, with Kudlow’s comments coming days after U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed not to impose new tariffs on each other’s goods.
In other markets
In Korea, the Kospi index regained 12.71 points, or 0.6%, to 2,108.73
In Singapore, the Straits Times Index inched up 4.45 points, or 0.1%, to 3,372.25
In Taiwan, the Taiex Index re-strengthened 32.13 points, or 0.3%, to 10,775.90
In New Zealand, the NZX 50 gained 13.85 points, or 0.1%, to 10,558.28
In Australia, the ASX 200 progressed 32.57 points, or 0.5%, to 6,718.02
