Stock market: Asia contrasted awaits inflation in the United States

Stock markets in Asia and the Pacific were mixed despite the recovery in semiconductor sector stocks. High oil prices and caution in view of inflation data in the United States had an impact, limiting gains.

Better-than-expected Chinese trade data offered some support, while subdued consumer inflation highlighted the uneven nature of the country's recovery.

Oil remains a concern for investors after Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia heightened uncertainty over energy supplies.

The South Korean Kospi, in ongoing trading, lost 0.7% while in Tokyo the Nikkei lost 0.17%. The Hang Seng in Hong Kong gained 0.33%. Sales on the Chinese markets with Shanghai falling by 0.65% and Shenzhen by 1.44%. Taiwan rises 0.59%. Futures on Wall Street are mixed with expected tech stocks still suffering. Europe, however, is expected to rise cautiously.