The majority of Asian stock indices were up after the release of China's higher NBS manufacturing PMI and an improving trade balance of South Korea (although its exports weakened). The news that the Fed will continue its quantitative easing program also impacted positively on Asia. Lastly, a number of companies released good financial results over the first half of 2013. These include Panasonic Corp, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc, and Mizuho Financial Group Inc.

Indonesia's main index rose 0.30 percent to 4624.34 points. Foreign investors recorded a net purchase, while domestic investors were net sellers of Indonesian stocks.

The Indonesian rupiah continued its depreciation against the US dollar in line with the country's continued trade deficit and higher July inflation (3.29 percent). The current annual inflation rate now peaks at 8.61 percent, particulraly due to higher food prices and transportation costs. The rupiah was also affected by the weaker Euro after the European Central Bank announced to keep its interest rate low.

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