The major Asia-Pacific equity indices have...>

STOCKS: The major Asia-Pacific equity indices have edged higher during the

course of Friday's session, but it has been a very tepid affair, with headline

flow limited.

- The marginally positive impetus was likely drawn from matters that drove price

action on Thursday, namely optimism surrounding Sino-U.S. trade matters (however

questionable the prospects of notable advances on that front may be) and the

prospects of stimulus of China.

- The HKEx has confirmed the successful open of its derivatives markets today,

with no connectivity issues seen. The exchange noted that the software issues

have now been isolated.

- Nikkei 225 +0.6%, Hang Seng +0.6%, CSI 300 +0.3%, ASX 200 +0.6%.

- S&P futures +7, DJIA futures +71, NASDAQ 100 futures +15.