## Asian Markets Mixed on Manufacturing Data
Asian markets displayed a mixed performance on Monday, with Shanghai gaining 1% on improved Chinese manufacturing data. Tokyo's Nikkei 225 fell 1.4% on declining manufacturer sentiment.
China's official manufacturing PMI reached 50.8 in March, its strongest reading since March 2023. The Caixin/S&P Global China manufacturing PMI also rose to 51.1, its highest level since February 2023.
The World Bank projects 4.5% growth for developing East Asian and Pacific economies this year, with China's economy expected to expand at 4.5%.
South Korea's Kospi edged up, while India's Sensex rose 0.6%. Bangkok's SET gained 0.2%.
U.S. markets closed at record highs on Thursday and are set to reopen on Monday. The U.S. dollar strengthened against the yen, while the euro edged lower.
This week will bring key U.S. economic data, including trade, jobless claims, and nonfarm payrolls.
The U.S. stock market has experienced a strong run since late October, with the S&P 500 achieving its fifth consecutive winning month. The Federal Reserve has indicated potential interest rate cuts later this year as inflation cools.
U.S. benchmark crude oil gained 26 cents to $83.43 per barrel, while Brent crude added 23 cents to $87.23 per barrel.