MARKETS

The US oil imports rise 12.3 percent in January while sales to Europe, China, Japan and Brazil decline.

Japan's economy expands 0.2 percent in fourth quarter, but widening current account deficit remains a challenge to Shinzo Abe.

Asian markets report mixed response as China posts an unexpected trade surplus for February.

Markets edge higher as traders await policy decisions from European Central Bank and Bank of England.

Australia's coal exports have been hurt by closing of ports and mines due to flooding in Queensland.

Most markets across the region trade lower, although Nikkei hits record high on yen weakness.

European markets open higher ahead of eurozone fourth-quarter GDP data and ECB meeting.

Australia's fourth-quarter GDP growth highlights increased public investments and exports.

Asian markets cheer US data as Japan and Australia indices reach fresh multi-year highs.

Eurozone services sector continues to decline on persistent weakness in France, Italy and Spain.

Markets open higher as traders await regional service-sector data amid eurozone finance ministers meet.

China's defence spending growth rate has slowed down in 2013, underlining the recent slowdown in the economy.

China's February services sector PMI indicates moderate recovery for the Chinese economy.

Markets recover from the previous session as traders speculate on China's economic forecasts and Japan's stimulus promises.

Spanish unemployment rise is smallest in five years, raising hopes of recovery.

Markets open lower as traders consider the US sequester, Italian political concerns and Chinese property curbs.

South Korea's inflation rate falls on weak domestic consumption and strong currency.

Asian markets slip as speculations of tighter controls over the real estate sector in China dampen sentiments.

A meeting between Obama and congressional leaders fails to avert $85bn spending cuts, which could harm US and global economy.

Asian stocks advanced this week as Japan's central bank chief nomination cheered investors despite European and US concerns

Markets open lower as traders consider US spending cut talks and disappointing China manufacturing data.

Consumer prices continued to decline in January, making its difficult for Japan to reach its 2 percent inflation target in the near future.

Markets remain mixed as official and private sector China manufacturing surveys indicate slower growth in February.

More money to be spent on infrastructure projects and rural schemes.

Vehicles, iron and steel, electronics equipment, semiconductors and auto parts help growth.

Markets set to close month higher after Shinzo Abe appoints Haruhiko Kuroda as BoJ governor.

Markets pick up from previous session's drop as Ben Bernanke's stimulus reassurances ease US economic concerns.

Sluggish retail sales underline need for further government help.

Markets pick up from slump following Italy election deadlock as US Federal Reserve chief defends monetary stimulus plan.