ASIA STOCKS: Japanese Equities Bounce On Weaker Yen, China Out For Golden Week

Global equities are mixed as investors navigate central bank policy signals, political developments, and geopolitical risks. In Japan, stocks posted gains fueled by a weaker yen, boosting exporters like technology and automotive firms. The Topix and Nikkei 225 both are 1.6% higher this morning, driven by positive sentiment following the BoJs dovish stance, even as the Tankan report bolstered confidence in the economy. U.S. stocks maintained their strength with theS&P 500 recording its fourth consecutive quarterly gain, as investors welcomed the Fed's Powell's comments on rate cuts "over time". Meanwhile, uncertainty looms in Europe and the U.S. as geopolitical tensions rise and election concerns grow.

• Australia's ASX 200 fell 0.5%, snapping a three-day winning streak, as mining shares weighed on the index following a pullback in iron ore futures. New Zealand's NZX 50 edged up 0.5% after BNZ said they now see the RBNZ cutting 50bps next week, this has caused OIS to firm a touch and is now pricing in 65% chance of a 50bps cut.
• US equity futures are ticking up a touch in early morning trading with S&P 500 eminis +0.10%, while Nasdaq 100 eminis are 0.20% higher, following moves overnight which were supported by Powell's indication that the Fed will gradually lower interest rates.
• China, Hong Kong & South Korea Equities are all closed today for public holidays