Asian Stocks Rise on China Data, Middle East Tensions

Global stock markets showed mixed but generally positive movements amid economic data releases and geopolitical tensions. In Bangladesh, the Dhaka and Chittagong stock exchanges rebounded with sector-wise gains, particularly in food, pharma, and banking, despite low overall turnover. Chinese markets edged higher as retail sales growth in May exceeded expectations, signaling stronger consumer demand, though industrial production growth slowed, and the government pledged increased policy support to stabilize growth, especially in light of geopolitical concerns involving Israel and Iran. Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index recovered from declines due to Middle East conflicts, with tech and gold-related stocks rising notably. Investors remain cautious, awaiting more decisive economic measures from China's Politburo meeting and the People's Bank of China, while global markets respond to rising oil prices and the ongoing Middle East conflict. European and US markets reflected cautious sentiment, with London stocks set to open slightly higher and Wall Street indices closing lower amid these uncertainties.