Asian and Pacific stock markets all rose after retail sales in the United States fell more than expected, a slowdown that could lead the Fed to cut rates as early as June to support the economy.
Tokyo rose by 0.8%, with the Nikkei index seeing its all-time high, but above all Hong Kong ran and rose by 2.4% also thanks to the Chinese government's support plans for the stock exchanges.
Both Shanghai and Shenzhen were closed for the Chinese New Year holidays, however with good signs from the domestic tourism front.
The general Seoul index rose by 1.2% and the technological index by 3%.
Sydney was more cautious, but closed with an increase of 0.6%.
Futures on the start of the European markets are slightly rising.
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