On the global front: US mkts end positive on better-than-expected economic data and Asian markets trading higher; Hang Seng up 2.7%.

On the global front: US mkts end positive on better-than-expected economic data and Asian markets trading higher; Hang Seng up 2.7%. The US markets rose on Wednesday as an unexpected growth in durable-goods orders and new-home sales boosted optimism that the country's economy was stabilising. Trading was volatile as poor demand in a US Treasury auction offset the rally for a bit. The Dow gained 89.94 points or 1.17% to close at 7,749.81. The S&P 500 Index added 7.63 points or 0.95% to shut shop at 813.88. The NASDAQ Composite Index was up 12.43 points or 0.82% to end at 1,528.95.