British News Agency

Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 Index fell 0.17% and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index dropped 0.42%, while mainland China’s CSI 300 Index was flat. According to official data released on Wednesday, China’s economy ended the year on a slightly less gloomy note as factory activity rose in December for the first time since March.

The official manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) rose to 50.1 in December, above economists’ expectations and November’s level. Readings above 50 indicate expansion.

Analysts said the MSCI All Country World Index has risen more than 21% year-to-date, reaching a record high on December 26.

U.S. stock futures were flat at the open of Asian markets.