DHAKA: Japanese shares have started the week lower, as investors remain disappointed by the central bank’s stimulus last Friday, which was not as bold as many analysts had expected.

The benchmark Nikkei 225 index was down 1.4% at 16,347.26 in early trading.

In total, just 18 stocks were positive, with 206 stocks falling, reports the BBC.

On Friday, The Bank of Japan kept rates on hold, and only modestly expanded its economic stimulus aimed at boosting the country's flagging economy.

Official data from China on Monday showed manufacturing activity had slowed slightly in July. The Purchasing Managers’ Index, which tracks activities at Chinese factories, showed a 49.9 reading for July, compared with 50 in June.

A reading above 50 indicates an expansion, while anything below that signals a contraction. Markets in China are shut on Monday for a public holiday.

In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng index opened up 0.91%, or 200 points, higher at 22,082.24.

In South Korea, the Kospi edged up 0.68% at the start of trade to 2,029.89.

And over in Australia, the benchmark ASX 200 share index inched 0.67% higher to 5,599.90 points.

BDST: 1221 HRS, AUG 01, 2016
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