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

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

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,

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