Asian stocks mixed as attention turns to China data

TOKYO (AP) — Asian shares were mixed Wednesday as attention focused on key economic indicators from China that will set the tone for regional growth prospects.

Japan's benchmark Nikkei 225 was little changed, inching down 0.1 percent at 19,654.51.

Investors were closely watching for the latest indicators out of China, including retail sales and industrial production, as the region is counting on growth there.

THE QUOTE: "Market focus will be on today's release of fixed asset investment and industrial production to gauge if there has been an interim stabilization," says Chang Wei Liang, Singapore Treasury Division of Mizuho Bank, referring to China data, following the inflation indicator from Tuesday that suggested a need for further easing and stimulus measures.