By Alvin Foo

A JOLT of optimism shot through battered regional bourses yesterday with investors betting that the welter of policies unleashed to deal with the global financial crisis would eventually take root.

The 'worst-is-over' feeling was reinforced by hopes that today's United States elections will end the political uncertainty in the country and ramp up the economic repairs.

'Expectations that the new government will have to get down to the job of turning around the economy may support optimism that the worst is over for holders of equities,' said CIMB analysts.

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