Shawdesh Desk:

Asian markets mostly rose Friday as trade hopes were given a boost by US President Donald Trump’s economic aide saying “enormous progress” had been made in talks with China, easing recent concerns that they were stumbling, reports AFP.

Hong Kong enjoyed a much-needed leg-up after a bruising week but sentiment remained fragile after the city endured another night of violent protest, with the transport network partially shut down and many businesses closed for a fifth day.

The broad regional gains came after top White House adviser Larry Kudlow said that the long-awaited mini trade deal with China was on track as part of a wider pact.