Stocks in Asia rose in Thursday morning trade as optimism over the economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic continued to keep investor sentiment afloat.

South Korea’s Kospi led gains among the region’s major markets as it rose 1.76% in early trade, adding to its nearly 3% Wednesday surge.

In Japan, the Nikkei 225 added 1.06% while the Topix index advanced 0.85%.

Meanwhile, shares in Australia also rose, with the S&P/ASX 200 up 0.89%.

Overall, the MSCI Asia ex-Japan index traded 0.41% higher.

On the economic data front, Australia retail sales for April is set to be released around 9:30 a.m. HK/SIN on Thursday.

Source : CNBC