Asian markets decline in early trade: Indian markets may see modest gains

Asian markets declined in the early session on Wednesday (Mar. 26, 2008) led by automakers and technology companies. Currently, markets are trading flat.

Nissan Motor and Nintendo declined the most among Japanese stocks on concern that the demand for cars and electronics will decline after U.S. consumer confidence fell.

Santos advanced in Sydney and Mitsubishi touched one-week high in Tokyo after crude oil, copper and gold prices advanced.

Japanese benchmark index Nikkei declined 112.42 points, or 0.88%, to trade at 12,632.80.

Hong Kong`s index Hang Seng lost 17.88 points, or 0.08%, to trade at 22,446.64.

China`s Shanghai Composite gained 32.52 points, or 0.90%, to trade at 3,662.14.

Taiwan`s Taiex index rose marginally 0.90 points, or 0.01%, to trade at 8,795.99.

South Korea`s KOSPI advanced 5.68 points, or 0.34%, to trade at 1,680.61.

Singapore`s Straits Times lost 7.60 points, or 0.25%, to trade at 2,992.59. (8.14 a.m., IST)