Most Asian shares fell, with the regional benchmark index headed for its biggest two-day decline in a month, after Spain struggled to sell bonds, renewing concern Europe won’t be able to contain its debt crisis.
Nikkei 225 9,767.61 -52.38 -0.53%
Hang Seng 20,593 -197.98 -0.95%
S&P/ASX 200 4,319.85 -14.02 -0.32%
Shanghai Composite 2,302.24 +39.45 +1.74%
Hutchison Whampoa Ltd. and other companies that do business in Europe slid after demand fell at a Spanish government bond auction, sparking concern about the region’s sovereign-debt crisis.
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. dropped 2 percent after Premier Wen Jiabao said China needs to break the “monopoly” of a few big lenders.
Soho China Ltd. rose 2.5 percent, leading gains among mainland developers after Credit Agricole SA said China is “almost guaranteed” to ease monetary policy further this month.