Markets Today: the Asian close, 25 August 2026
The Asian trading day in one place: 4 stories across currencies, central banks, equities and deals, collected at the close.
Central banks & currencies
RBI Holds Repo Rate at 5.25%, Focuses on Inflation Guidance: India's central bank maintains its key lending rate. The Monetary Policy Committee's (MPC) August decision centres on its inflation and liquidity outlook, rather than rate adjustments, amid global economic uncertainty.
RBI Absorbs ₹1.25 Trillion in Three-Day Liquidity Auction: The Reserve Bank of India conducted a three-day variable rate reverse repo auction. This action drew ₹1,25,000 crore from the banking system. It manages prevailing liquidity levels.
Stocks & bonds
Alibaba Shares Jump 5% on New Alipay AI Merchant Platform: Alibaba Group Holding shares climbed after Alipay launched an artificial intelligence-powered platform for businesses. This platform automates tasks, driving investor optimism before the company's June quarter earnings report.
Crypto & digital assets
Binance Plans Bangkok Blockchain Week for November 2026: Binance will host its Asia Blockchain Week in Bangkok this November. The event focuses on digital asset integration with traditional finance, reflecting Asia's growing role in crypto adoption and regulatory development.
Every item above was reported and checked separately today; this wrap collects them in one place at the Asian close. Follow any headline through to the full story for the figures and their sources. The Brief carries the same day in five minutes tomorrow morning.
This article is journalism, not investment advice; consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions. Market data is indicative, may be delayed, and should be verified with your broker or exchange before use.
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