Asian shares were mostly weaker in light regional trade, though Hong Kong gained as interest in property shares was evident. eased while the dipped . In Australia, the wage price index for the second quarter rose as expected as well at the increase seen.
Gold prices eased slightly in Asia on Wednesday in quiet regional trade with investors focused on demand prospects in China as signs emerge of slower pace of growth and in India where economic reforms are seen lagging.
South Korea finance minister said the government will act to stabilize financial markets if they become more volatile because of tensions between Pyongyang and Washington, but noted markets are already showing signs of stability.
Retail Sales measure the change in the total value of sales at the retail level. It is the foremost indicator of consumer spending, which accounts for the majority of overall economic activity.
Oil prices edged up on a fall in U.S. crude inventories, although markets were still being weighed down by general oversupply.Brent crude futures () were at $51.02 per barrel at 0218 GMT, up 22 cents or 0.4 percent from their last close.