STI up as ECB stimulus rubs off on region

AIN'T nothing like the word "stimulus" and "open-ended" to set off a rally in equity markets as if they've been hit by an adrenalin shot.

For the local bourse, there's an added reason to celebrate - this week, the key Straits Times Index put up a remarkable showing of inching up every single day. It ended on Friday at 3,411.5, higher by 41.21 points or 1.2 per cent.

Most other benchmark indices in the region soared as well on jubilation - and surprise - over the European Central Bank's larger-than-expected bond-buying stimulus programme.