Investors eye recovery as most Asia markets rise, HK stocks fly high.

Optimism about the global economic recovery and vaccine rollouts trumped ongoing concerns about soaring virus infections Tuesday with most Asian markets clocking up big gains. And stocks on the bourse in the world's trading-hub Hong Kong took a high ride on the global recovery hopes as the anti- corona combats are going in high gear. Hong Kong stocks soared more than three percent on Tuesday morning, in line with an Asia-wide advance, boosted by a flood of cash from mainland Chinese investors and as traders remain upbeat about a long- term economic outlook. The Hang Seng Index rallied 3.06 percent, or 883.40 points, to 29,746.17, its highest level since May 2019. Traders were also awaiting the Senate confirmation hearing for Treasury secretary pick Janet Yellen, which is expected to give lawmakers a chance to go over Joe Biden's huge stimulus proposal. US markets were closed Monday for a public holiday but regional investors were mostly in buoyant mood as they prepare for the new president to take office promising a vaccination blitz and a drive to kick- start the economy. Hong Kong piled on more than two percent, having jumped one percent on Monday, to levels not seen since May 2019. Tokyo, Sydney, Seoul and Taipei rallied more than one percent, while there were smaller gains in Singapore and Jakarta. Shanghai, Manila and Wellington dipped, however. World virus cases broke 95 million this week while deaths have topped two million, putting pressure on governments to quickly distribute inoculations while at the same time imposing strict, economically painful lockdowns. While Biden's inauguration on Wednesday is the key event for the week, traders will be keeping a close watch on Yellen's hearing, where the former Federal Reserve chief is expected to tell lawmakers the world's top economy could suffer if they do not approve a big spending plan. 'Economists don't always agree, but I think there is a consensus now...