Asian equities advanced, buoyed by technology-heavy benchmark indices, as most markets across the region resumed trading. Hong Kong stocks in China also registered gains. The MSCI Asia Pacific Index excluding Japan climbed as much as 1.2%, reaching its highest level in two months. Tencent, Samsung Electronics, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) were the primary contributors to the index's ascent. The Hang Seng Index rose more than 2%. "We are seeing the continuation of the upward trend in equities, with the AI and tech sectors once again leading the charge," stated Tim Waterer, Chief Market Analyst at KCM Trade Global. "Asian equities have delivered a satisfactory performance in 2025, and there are reasons to believe this upward momentum will carry through into the new year."