The major regional equity markets............>

STOCKS: The major regional equity markets initially benefitted from stronger

than expected Chinese GDP and economic activity data before the effects waned,

leaving the space trading mixed in the second half of the session.

- The Nikkei 225 once again printed fresh YtD highs, but struggled for notable

topside extension.

- Elsewhere, the partial roll-over of the latest maturing round of PBoC MLF

liquidity provisions may have disappointed Chinese investors providing some

weight to Chinese equities, after the impact of the stronger than expected data

waned.

- The ASX 200 saw BHP Billiton cut its iron ore output forecasts, mimicking Rio

Tinto's adjustments, made on Monday. The mining space also came under pressure

as iron ore slid after Vale revealed that its Brucutu mine will reopen within 72

hours.

- Nikkei 225 +0.3%, Hang Seng -0.2%, CSI 300 -0.3%, ASX 200 -0.2%.

- S&P 500 futures +2, DJIA futures +7, NASDAQ 100 futures +13.