Asian equity markets edge higher after Chinese trade balance miss

FXstreet.com (Barcelona) - Stock indices in Asia experienced a sudden jolt, following the uneven economic data out of China, perhaps none other than the Trade Balance statistics in March (-0.884B vs. 15.400B) projected. In addition, commodities experienced a modest rise ahead of the FOMC minutes later today, with precious metals building on yesterday’s recovery.

Beginning with the indices and composites, the Shanghai Index grew +0.02% as it settles in region of 2226.13, up +0.35 points in these moments. In addition, the Hang Seng Index is trading in positive territory, operating at 21945.91, advancing +75.57 points or +0.78% at the time of writing. Finally, the Nikkei 225 is trading near opening levels, operating in the zone of 13288.13, jumping +0.73% after a movement of +95.78 points.

In terms of commodities, the price of gold and silver are trading at USD $1586.23 and $27.98 per oz. respectively. In addition, the price of crude is negotiating a price of USD $94.02/bbl.