Asian markets split as traders await US jobs report after Fed's Waller remarks

Asian markets were mixed to higher on Friday, with Hong Kong, South Korea and Japan gaining while mainland Chinese shares and Australia’s benchmark declined. The moves followed a technology-led Wall Street rally and easing U.S. Treasury yields, although investors remained cautious ahead of the U.S. jobs report. Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller said signs of disinflation could support keeping interest rates unchanged at this month’s meeting, prompting markets to reduce the perceived likelihood of a rate hike. The comments also weakened the dollar and helped drive gains in the yen, while broader Asian equities remained slightly lower for the week. Oil prices stayed elevated amid continuing geopolitical tensions, adding to uncertainty for investors.