Major Asia-Pac equity benchmarks dropped.....>

STOCKS: Major Asia-Pac equity benchmarks dropped sharply overnight on extended

react to the escalating protests in Hong Kong and the fall in Argentine assets.

Shares in Cathay Pacific, the Hong Kong airline lost further ground and are now

approaching weekly losses of 10%.

- The ASX 200 witnessed underperformance across most sectors, consumer

discretionary and health care were the biggest fallers, while IT and Industrials

bucked the trend with minor gains. Last -0.25%.

- The Hang Seng Index lost over 1.5% and remains heavy. Health care and

Industrials were the biggest fallers with losses of over 2%. Last -1.72%.

- CSI 300 -0.96%, Nikkei 225 -1.23%.

- S&P 500 futures +5.50, DJIA futures +52.00, Nasdaq 100 futures +13.25.