Asian markets rallied as China and the United States confirmed a framework to advance their trade talks. Major stock indices across Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Seoul, and Australia recorded moderate gains, supported by easing export tariffs and positive investor sentiment. Globally, mixed signals persisted amid some corporate uncertainty driven by lingering trade tensions.
Asian equities climbed on June 11 as China and the United States confirmed they had reached a framework to continue trade discussions, following a truce reached in Geneva last month. The announcement boosted investor sentiment and helped drive major indices higher across the region.
Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 rose 0.6% to close at 38,450.76, bolstered by signs of easing wholesale inflation and expectations that the Bank of Japan may hold off on interest rate hikes. In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng Index gained 0.9%, reaching 24,381.39. Mainland China’s Shanghai Composite also edged up 0.5% to 3,402.97.
Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 saw a modest gain of 0.2%, closing at 8,603.70, while South Korea’s KOSPI added 1.0% to settle at 2,900.05. The rally was supported by improving global trade sentiment and hopes of further easing in cross-border tariffs.
U.S. futures, however, showed mild weakness, reflecting caution over the next steps in trade talks. Despite the positive framework announcement, uncertainty lingers regarding concrete outcomes. Markets are also watching for upcoming deadlines, including the expiration of tariff suspensions set for July.
In the U.S., the stock market maintained its upward trajectory on June 10, with the S&P 500 climbing 0.5% to 6,038.81. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.2% to reach 42,866.87, while the Nasdaq Composite advanced 0.6% to 19,714.99.
While equity markets responded positively, several companies remain cautious. Some have revised or withdrawn their financial outlooks for the year, citing ongoing global trade uncertainties. Retail and consumer discretionary sectors, in particular, continue to feel the pressure.
Despite the broader rally, analysts believe that market sustainability depends on continued clarity in trade negotiations and stronger economic indicators. The next phase of gains may require not only diplomatic progress but also tangible recovery in earnings and high-frequency growth metrics.
In other markets, crude oil prices saw modest increases. Benchmark U.S. crude rose to $65.06 per barrel, while Brent crude edged up to $66.89 per barrel. Meanwhile, the 10-year U.S. Treasury yield eased to 4.48%, reflecting steady investor demand for government securities.
On the currency front, the U.S. dollar appreciated slightly, reaching 145.08 Japanese yen. The euro slipped marginally, trading at $1.1418 against the dollar.