Trading was mixed in Asian bourses that remained open on Wednesday, as some major regional stock markets, including Tokyo and Seoul, closed for the year-end and New Year's holidays.

The benchmark Hang Seng Index lost 53 points, or 0.21 percent, to open at 25,801, with the bourse operating for half a day.

On the mainland, the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index opened up 0.09 percent at 3,968, while the Shenzhen Component Index opened 0.17 percent higher at 13,627. The ChiNext Index, tracking China's Nasdaq-style board of growth enterprises, was up 0.15 percent at 3,247.

With just one trading day left before the year ends, most big investors have closed out their positions and volume has been thin. Every major index is headed for a double-digit gain for the year.

The biggest weights on the US market remained technology companies, especially those focused on advancements for artificial intelligence.

Markets were higher in Europe.

The more notable action was again in the commodities markets.

Gold, silver and copper all resumed their ascent after steep declines a day earlier. (Reuters/Xinhua)