1.   Banks were boosted by expectations for unchanged interest rates.

2.   Banks led gainers, boosted by expectations for unchanged interest rates and amid perceptions of greater stability in Asia.

3.   GERMAN shares rose in electronic trading, boosted by expectations of stronger export earnings as the dollar gained against the German mark.

4.   Investors said stocks were boosted by expectations that falling interest rates will buoy the economy and corporate profits.

5.   Prices also were boosted by expectations that a weekend storm forecast for the Plains could force meatpackers to reduce slaughter rates.

6.   Shares were boosted by expectations a stronger peso and lower U.S. interest rates would help earnings.

7.   Brokers said the market was boosted by expectations of continued growth in the Philippine economy this year.

8.   In nearby Singapore, the stock market was boosted by expectations that other banks will cut interest rates, too.

9.   Local shares were also boosted by expectations of further cuts in interest rates in the United States and Hong Kong, brokers said.

10.   Most Asian markets opened higher Wednesday boosted by expectations of U.S. interest rates cuts and regional banking reforms.