HONG KONG: Asian markets' upward trend since the start of the year continued on Friday as optimism was boosted by a fresh set of upbeat US data and positive news from the eurozone.
Improving risk sentiment also supported the euro against the yen and dollar but rising oil prices tempered gains.
Tokyo added 0.45 percent by the break, Hong Kong gained 0.81 percent, Seoul was up 0.43 percent, Sydney rose 0.32 percent and Shanghai was 0.55 percent higher.
In Europe ministers agreed measures linked to a Greek debt restructuring and the beleaguered country is expected to be given the all clear for its second bailout next week.
The move came at a two-way summit where leaders are discussing measures to promote long-term growth and jobs in the region.
Investors around the world have also been encouraged by a committee's crucial ruling that Greece was not in default on its bonds in the 107 billion euro ($142 billion) writeoff deal.
A default ruling would have triggered the payment of credit default swaps, insurance on the debt, which could have tanked Athens' entire 237 billion euro second bailout. (AFP)
Improving risk sentiment also supported the euro against the yen and dollar but rising oil prices tempered gains.
Tokyo added 0.45 percent by the break, Hong Kong gained 0.81 percent, Seoul was up 0.43 percent, Sydney rose 0.32 percent and Shanghai was 0.55 percent higher.
In Europe ministers agreed measures linked to a Greek debt restructuring and the beleaguered country is expected to be given the all clear for its second bailout next week.
The move came at a two-way summit where leaders are discussing measures to promote long-term growth and jobs in the region.
Investors around the world have also been encouraged by a committee's crucial ruling that Greece was not in default on its bonds in the 107 billion euro ($142 billion) writeoff deal.
A default ruling would have triggered the payment of credit default swaps, insurance on the debt, which could have tanked Athens' entire 237 billion euro second bailout. (AFP)