The Nikkei 225 went into the lunch break.....>

STOCKS: The Nikkei 225 went into the lunch break up 313.03pts at 22324.64,

Japanese stocks near all time highs as the information technology sector

outperforms, Sony reported record earnings boosting the Topix. The weakened Yen

also helping to boost Japanese stocks as Kyodo the Tokyo news outlet reported

Japanese Prime Minister Abe is going to order an extra budget meeting later

today.

- The Hang-Seng is gaining after Caixin Manufacturing PMI came in as expected,

information technology the best performing sector. South Korea's Kospi index up

despite their Caixin PMI coming in lower than previous and Australia's ASX200 is

up after an increase in AiG Manufacturing PMI reported at 55.5 from 53.8.

- Wall Streets main indices ended the overnight higher ahead of the FOMC meeting

on Wednesday whereby little should change as a December rate hike remains priced

in, during the Asia-Session Polito reported U.S. Republicans have decided they

will delay the tax bill to be unveiled on Thursday instead of Wednesday.

European stocks also ended the overnight higher ahead of Thursday's BOE MPC

where a rate hike is probable.