Asian stocks decline as China stimulus fails to meet expectations; bitcoin hits new record high

Asian stocks fell on Monday, led by a 2.5% drop in Hong Kong's Hang Seng index. This decline followed disappointing stimulus measures from Beijing, which did not meet investor expectations for direct economic support. Other regional markets also experienced losses. Bitcoin reached a new record high of $81,756, driven by optimism following Donald Trump's election victory and expectations of a favorable regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies. The dollar remained strong against major currencies as traders awaited U.S. consumer inflation data. Oil prices continued to decline, with Brent crude down 0.3% to $73.68 a barrel. Gold prices also fell, retreating from last month's record high. U.S. bond markets were closed for Veterans Day, but Wall Street remained open.