Asia-Pacific markets trade mixed on Monday after the People’s Bank of China unexpectedly lowered a key short-term rate and pump more liquidity into the financial system ahead of a 7-day holiday beginning October 1.

By Wayne Cole SYDNEY (Reuters) -Asian stocks firmed on Monday ahead of central bank meetings that are widely expected to deliver two more rate cuts and key U.S. inflation figures that should flash a green light for more easing there.

Asian equity markets were nearly universally higher overnight after the US Fed cut rates by 0.50%, despite a lackluster reaction on Wall Street.

Most Asian markets rose Monday, building on last week's rally following the Federal Reserve's bumper interest rate cut, while sentiment was also boosted by hopes for fresh measures to kickstart

Investing.com-- Most Asian stocks rose slightly on Monday amid persistent cheer over lower interest rates, while Australian markets lagged as major retail stocks fell sharply in the face of an antitrust lawsuit.