The Nikkei is trading flat, giving back early morning gains as banking shares fell on investor caution ahead of the US bank assessments. Pioneer Corp however rallied on the news that it may apply for state funds.

In Australia the ASX200 is also flat, up just 6 points. Gains in financial stocks were offset by losses in BHP, the gold miners and supermarkets. Brokers are saying that the local market wasnt following Wall St as closely as had been the case a week ago.