Asian Shares Rise as Japan’s Market Surges on Policy Optimism

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia

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Image Source:AP Photo/Richard Drew

Asian shares advanced on Monday, led by strong gains in Japan’s benchmark index as investors reacted to signs of policy stability and improving global sentiment.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 jumped nearly 3 %, reaching a record high and reflecting renewed confidence in the country’s economic outlook. The surge followed expectations of continued pro-growth policies and potential fiscal support aimed at boosting investment and domestic demand. Analysts noted that investor optimism was further supported by a weaker yen, which tends to benefit export-driven companies.

Across the region, major markets also recorded modest gains. Hong Kong and Shanghai saw a lift after China’s latest economic data pointed to steady, if uneven, recovery. The country’s third-quarter figures showed industrial output and consumer spending both improving, easing some concerns about slowing momentum in Asia’s largest economy.

Investor sentiment was also strengthened by softer inflation data from the United States, which raised hopes that the Federal Reserve may begin cutting interest rates in the coming months. Lower U.S. borrowing costs would likely support global liquidity and capital flows into Asian markets.

Despite the upbeat tone, analysts cautioned that risks remain. China’s property sector continues to face pressure, and uncertainty over global trade and energy prices could still weigh on growth. Even so, the region’s equity markets appear to be gaining traction after weeks of volatility.

Overall, Monday’s rally highlighted growing optimism that supportive domestic measures in Japan and stabilising economic trends in China could sustain Asia’s recovery, offering a positive start to the week for investors across the region.

United Airlines Projects Strong Fourth Quarter, Defying Industry Caution

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Business

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Image Source: Kevin Carter | Getty Images

United Airlines issued an optimistic profit forecast for the final quarter of 2025, projecting earnings that surpassed analyst expectations. The carrier anticipates earning between $3.00 and $3.50 per share, significantly higher than the Wall Street estimate of $2.86 per share. This bullish outlook comes as the airline continues to expand its capacity while rivals scale back growth plans.

The company's confidence stems from its strategic investments and a rebound in demand. "Those investments over almost a decade, combined with great service from our people, have allowed United to win and retain brand-loyal customers," said CEO Scott Kirby in a statement. He highlighted the company's network, new technology, and refreshed cabins as key factors driving customer loyalty.

For the third quarter, United reported mixed results. It beat earnings expectations with an adjusted profit of $2.78 per share, compared to estimates of $2.62. However, revenue of $15.23 billion fell slightly short of the $15.33 billion analysts had forecast. While passenger revenue per seat declined, the airline saw a 9% increase in sales from its lucrative loyalty program, which Kirby said has the potential to double its earnings by 2030.

The airline is also successfully competing for high-value travelers, with premium-cabin revenue rising 6% in the quarter. This growth strategy, which includes expanding to unique international destinations, positions United to capitalize on an improving economic landscape and stronger travel demand heading into the year's end.

European Stocks Open Lower Amid U.S. Tariff Fears and Political Uncertainty

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Business

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Image Source: Brendan McDermid | Reuters

European stocks opened slightly lower on Tuesday as investors monitored U.S. trade developments and ongoing political deadlock in Washington. The pan-European Stoxx 600 index fell 0.2% shortly after the opening bell, with most sectors and major bourses trading in negative territory.

Among individual stocks, Danish jewelry company Pandora dropped 3.5%, hitting the bottom of the Stoxx 600 after announcing that CEO Alexander Lacik will retire in March. Chief Marketing Officer Berta de Pablos-Barbier, a former LVMH executive, is set to succeed him.

Markets remain sensitive to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent trade measures. On Monday, Trump announced a 10% tariff on imported timber and lumber, as well as an initial 25% duty on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and upholstered furniture, citing threats to the U.S. economy and national security. Investors are closely watching how these tariffs may impact global supply chains and corporate earnings.

Political uncertainty in the U.S. also weighed on markets. Discussions at the White House between Trump and congressional leaders failed to resolve budget disagreements, raising concerns about a potential federal government shutdown. While shutdowns historically have limited market impact, analysts caution that current economic vulnerabilities including a slowing labor market, stagflation risks, and high stock valuations could amplify market reactions.

In the U.K., the Labour Party’s annual conference continues in Liverpool, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer scheduled to address delegates. Finance Minister Rachel Reeves’ speech Monday offered limited guidance on upcoming tax measures for the Autumn Budget, leaving investors awaiting further policy signals.

Across the globe, Asia-Pacific markets traded mixed after official Chinese data indicated a sixth consecutive month of manufacturing contraction. Meanwhile, U.S. stock futures were largely unchanged as investors looked to extend gains following a strong September performance.

Analysts note that geopolitical developments and economic indicators this week will be closely monitored, with the potential to influence investor sentiment across global markets.