British News Agency

Asia-Pacific markets started the first full trading week of 2026 on a stronger footing after the United States said it attacked Venezuela over the weekend and captured President Nicolas Maduro. As markets assessed the potential impact of geopolitical tensions, oil prices edged lower.

Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 rose 2.82% in the year’s first trading session, while the Topix index gained 1.42% to reach a record high. Defense stocks were among the top gainers, with Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries up 5.7% and 6.4%, respectively.

South Korea’s Kospi index climbed 2.41% to a record 4,420.92, while the small-cap Kosdaq index rose 0.2%. Shares of defense giant Hanwha Aerospace jumped by up to 4%, and Poongsan shares gained 3%.

Australia’s ASX/S&P 200 added 0.11%.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index was flat, while mainland China’s CSI 300 rose 0.68%.