Asian Markets Cautious as Traders wait on Brexit Vote

Asian and Pacific Rim markets were mostly higher, albeit cautiously, by the afternoon. Asian and regional traders are waiting on the outcome of today’s parliament vote in the United Kingdom on Prime Minister Teresa May’s Brexit divorce deal from the European Union. The prime minister, most likely, does not have the votes she needs.

Asian traders, were also, still concerned over a slowing economy in China. Trader sentiment got off to a bad foot after Chinese trade data came in weaker than expected on Monday.

In Japan, the Nikkei 225 was up 0.9 percent. Japan’s markets were closed Monday for a public holiday.

In South Korea, the Kospi composite index was up 1.31 percent. In Seoul, South Korea, the Kosdaq index was up 1.12 percent.

Asian Markets in China ad Australia also Gain Ground Today

Looking at the financial markets in China, they were all higher by afternoon trade hours. In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng index was up 0.45 percent. On the mainland in China, the smaller Shanghai index and the Shenzhen index were both up a fraction.

Looking at the Down Under, the Australian benchmark S&P ASX 200, was higher. This benchmark added 0.5 percent. The heavily weighted financial sub-index was up 0.57. The energy sub index was also higher as was the materials sector.