Mixed Trends Ahead Of US CPI Print

Regional equity sentiment has been mixed today. China and Japan markets have struggled for positive traction, but we have mostly seen positive gains elsewhere. US futures are ticking higher, but only modestly. Eminis were last near 4476, +0.05% firmer for the session.

• China mainland stocks are a touch lower at the break. The CSI 300 close to flat at this stage, while the Shanghai Composite is down 0.13%. Onshore media has highlighted local analysts calling for fresh fiscal stimulus in H2.
• The HSI is faring better, up 1.15% at this stage. The Golden Dragon Index continued to recover in US Trade on Tuesday, up a further 1.61%, so we may be seeing some positive carry over from this.
• Japan stocks are softer, with a firmer yen likely weighing at the margins (up 3.43% month to date). The Topix is off by around 0.50% at this stage, Nikkei 225 -0.60%.
• Other markets are doing better, albeit modestly. The Taiex and Kospi up by around 0.25%.
• In SEA gains are slightly higher, with the Philippine index up nearly 0.70% at this stage.
• Thai stocks may be impacted by PM candidate Pita's case being referred to the Thai constitutional court. Tomorrow the Thai parliament is scheduled to vote on a new PM.