Mixed performance for the major regional...>

EQUITIES: Mixed performance for the major regional equity markets in Asia-Pac

hours, after the U.S. indices faded into the NY bell, with questions re: U.S.

fiscal matters swirling. Still, U.S. equity index futures ticked higher

overnight, perhaps with an eye on a BBG story pointing to the GOP considering a

70% wage replacement scheme for the unemployed as part of its latest support

bill. China outperformed, despite the initial round of STAR market IPOs exiting

the 1-Year lockup period. Some focus fell on comments made by Chinese President

Xi, late Tuesday. Xi noted that China must focus on developing its enormous

domestic market to counter growing international pressure including rising

protectionism and weakening demand. Elsewhere, Chinese margin usage is ticking

back towards multi-year highs.

- The ASX 200 underperformed, with the energy sector providing the only form of

cushion on a sectoral basis. Local COVID-19 worries weighed.

- Nikkei 225 -0.2%, Hang Seng +0.2%, CSI 300 +2.0%, ASX 200 -1.2%.

- S&P 500 futures +12, DJIA futures +120, NASDAQ 100 futures +56.