Asian markets surge; Nikkei gains 316pts

Asian markets have rallied smartly following positive cues from the US markets.

The Hang Seng has surged 344 points to 12,346. The Nikkei has rallied 316 points to 7,514.

The Taiwan Weighted index has soared 90 points to 4,844. The Straits Times index has advanced 38 points to 1,532, and the Seoul Composite index is up two points at 1,130.

The Shanghai Composite index has gained 23 points at 2,157.