I expect a dull market here, especially given uncertainty in the Iraq war.

The key is whether the market is able to shift its eyes from uncertainty in the politics and the banking system,

Given the difficult global economy and the increasing uncertainty caused by the impending war in Iraq, we were pleased to see modest revenue and operating earnings growth in our fiscal third quarter,

The market was short of upward momentum owing to a dearth of strong fund inflows from overseas investors.

The Nikkei 225 had shed more than half the gains it added in its previous rally, so it was a good time for investors to hunt for bargains.

Gains in U.S. stocks and a halt in the yen's rise are both supportive for the market,