Sydney (Reuters): Asian share markets were mixed on Monday as political uncertainty globally kept the mood cautious, while the US dollar dithered in a tight range ahead of a busy week for Federal Reserve events.
Japan's Nikkei .N225 went flat after domestic data showed exports disappointed in January even as imports outpaced forecasts.
Shanghai stocks .SSEC added 0.9 percent and expectations of solid economic growth in China kept commodities such as copper and iron ore well bid. Spreadbetters predicted opening gains of 0.2 to 0.3 percent for bourses in Europe while E-mini futures for the S&P 500 ESc1 added 0.1 percent.
Wall Street ended last week on a roll, with all three major indexes making historic highs and the Dow Jones Industrial Average reaching a seventh straight record close. A host of results from retailers are due this week, including Wal-Mart Stores Inc (WMT.N), Macy's (M.N) and Home Depot Inc (HD.N). The results will be watched for a read on spending as well as for commentary from executives on President Donald Trump's proposal to tax imports.
