Hong Kong stocks opened higher: Hang Seng Index +0.24%, Hang Seng Tech +0.27%. Gold miners led gains at the open; Zijin Gold International (02259.HK) +3.13%, Chifeng Gold (06693.HK) +2.55%.

Meta Platforms (META.O) premarket gains widened to 2%.

Last week's mixed July jobs report raised the market importance of July inf, analysts say. LPL Financial chief economist Jeffrey Roach said the Fed's rate path will depend on how long inf stays elevated; with the labor market cooling, inf could become the swing factor. A less certain inf outlook could support one hike this year but makes multiple hikes unlikely. Vanguard analyst Hicklin said July payrolls plus expected inf improvement bolster the case for the Fed to leave rates unchanged through year-end. Recent data have shifted Fed focus toward balancing labor-market signals and inf, increasing confidence policymakers will hold rates this year.