Markets Today: the Asian close, 16 October 2026
The Asian trading day in one place: 4 stories across currencies, central banks, equities and deals, collected at the close.
The close
Asia Stocks Expected Up; Nvidia CEO Eases AI Valuation Fears: Futures for Japan, South Korea, and Australia indicated gains, potentially ending a four-day slide for regional markets. MSCI Inc. also initiated a review of Indonesia's emerging market status.
Stocks & bonds
SGX lot changes fail to shift bank trading dominance: Singapore Exchange's recent move to 10-share trading lots has not reduced the market influence of its three largest banks, which still comprise a third of September's turnover.
IPO & deals
Endeavor Catalyst closes $320 million fund for Asia startups: The venture capital arm now manages over $850 million and has already deployed $55.7 million from its new Fund V into 30 companies.
Itochu Acquires 20% Stake in Japan's Aspirant Group: The Japanese trading house plans to integrate artificial intelligence into Aspirant's portfolio companies, making the fund manager an equity-method affiliate.
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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