Asian stocks were somewhat inconsistent, as financial and consumer-staple shares led declines.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 index stepped back 61.53 points, or 0.4%, to 15,747.20. A report showed Japan’s machinery orders for November beat estimates.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index gained 84.41 points, or 0.4%, to 22,986.41.
China South City Holdings Ltd. soared 61% in Hong Kong as Tencent Holdings Ltd. said it will buy a stake in the logistics-centre operator.
China Overseas Grand Oceans, a developer, fell 4.5% to HK$6.86.
Newcrest Mining Ltd., Australia’s biggest gold producer, jumped 7% after saying gold production will be around the top end of its forecast range. The company’s investment rating was raised to overweight at JPMorgan Chase & Co.
In other markets;
Shanghai’s CSI 300 index inched forward 2.90 points, or 0.1%, to 2,211.84
Korea’s Kospi index nicked up 4.04 points, or 0.2%, to 1,957.32
Taiwan’s Taiex Index advanced 9.56 points, or 0.1%, to 8,612.11
The Singapore Straits Times Index faded 2.81 points, or 0.1%, to 3,140.14
In New Zealand, the NZX 50 added 8.26 points, or 0.2%, to 4,921.29
In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 gained 63.64 points, or 1.2%, to 5,309.07
