Delhi, 2 May (H.S.): Asian markets saw positive movement on Friday, May 2, 2025, fueled by hopes of easing US-China trade tensions after China announced it is “currently assessing” US proposals for trade talks. A spokesperson from China’s Commerce Ministry confirmed the evaluation of multiple messages from the US aimed at initiating dialogue. This development represents a softening of Beijing’s previously rigid stance amid escalating trade friction under President Trump.

The MSCI Asia ex Japan index rose sharply by over 1.15% to reach 587.79. Notably, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng advanced by 1.5%, while South Korea’s Kospi recorded a minor increase of 0.1%. Japan’s Nikkei and Singapore’s Straits Times grew by 0.69% and 0.19%, respectively, and Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 improved by 0.81%.

Oil prices also climbed, with Brent crude futures gaining 38 cents to $62.51 per barrel, indicating a potential shift towards negotiations between the two economic giants.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar