Asian stock markets showed mixed performance on Friday, as investors awaited clarity on U.S. trade talks. The focus was on key economic data and central bank decisions.
Japan's Nikkei 225 and TOPIX indexes rose, gaining 0.5% and 0.6% respectively. This was driven by speculation that the Bank of Japan might delay interest rate hikes due to weak consumer spending and wage data.
Chinese markets were subdued, with the Shanghai Composite and CSI 300 indexes remaining flat. Hong Kong's Hang Seng slipped 0.4%, reflecting caution. This was despite a "positive" call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Australia's ASX 200 dipped 0.1%, while Indian markets showed optimism. The Reserve Bank of India was expected to announce a 25 basis point rate cut, its third this year.
U.S. markets remained cautious ahead of nonfarm payrolls data. S&P 500 futures edged up slightly during Asian hours. Investors are staying risk-averse until clearer signals emerge from global policy shifts and U.S.-China trade negotiations.