Asian shares mixed as investors eye Tokyo inflation data

TOKYO (AP) — Asian shares were mixed Friday as worries deepened about the regional economy and Japan reported higher-than-expected inflation.  

Benchmarks fell in Tokyo, Seoul and Hong Kong, but rose in Sydney and Shanghai.  

Investors have their eyes on China's lockdowns and restrictions to curb the spread of coronavirus infections , as the direction China takes will have great impact on the rest of Asia.  

“Reopening policies have pivoted in China, which will be a gradual process. COVID control measures will vary across cities, but positive top-down approaches will be ongoing,” said Stephen Innes, Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management.