In Asia, the yen strengthened toward 153 per dollar on speculation that the Bank of Japan could raise rates as soon as April. The offshore yuan rose to a 34-month high near 6.89 as Lunar New Year closures shifted liquidity offshore.

Gold slipped below $4,970 in thin holiday trade, despite softer US inflation supporting expectations of further Fed easing. Brent eased to $68.3 after earlier gains tied to renewed US-Iran tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.

Check out today's market analysis for more updates!