Asian equities experienced growth as
investors became aware of Berlusconi's forthcoming resignation and China
reported drop in inflation rate. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average edged up 1.2%,
Shanghai Composite gained 0.8%, and Hang Seng Index advanced 1.7%, Australia's
S&P/ASX 200 index increased 1.2% while South Korea's Kospi rose 0.2%.