Asian markets rally; Nikkei ends up 4%

 Asian markets ended up today on the back of signs of an improving US economy, which may prompt regional exporters to boost production.

The Nikkei surged 334 points (4%) to 8,828. The Hang Seng rallied 564 points (4%) to 15,521.

The Taiwan Weighted gained 379 points (7%) at 5,993. The Straits Times advanced 60 points (3%) to 1,910.

The Seoul Composite moved up 31 points (2%) to 1,369.

Updated at 0835 hrs

Asian markets are up this morning.

The Hang Seng has rallied 529 points (3.5%) to 15,486. The Nikkei surged 340 points (4%) to 8,834.

The Taiwan Weighted has gained 376 points (7%) at 5,990. The Seoul Composite advanced 38 points (3%) to 1,377.

The Straits Times added 45 points (2.5%) to 1,895.