The Japanese market recovery is being underpinned by unusual strength in U.S. equities.

The crude oil price is the U.S. economy's Achilles' heel as higher costs for gas and engine oil directly affect consumers. A possible rise in borrowing costs in Japan may curb demand for loans and is a blow to bank stocks.

The emphasis isn't on companies' outlook for future growth. Rather, investors are picking stocks with low (price-to-earnings) ratios, or companies that averaged safe revenue growth over the last five years.

Investors are awaiting the outcome of the central bank's policy-setting meeting tomorrow. Caution before the Bank of Japan verdict appeared to keep market participants at bay.

The U.S. economy won't be able to avoid a slowdown given the damage from Hurricane Katrina on top of crude prices. This is an element of uncertainty in the market that's weighing on stocks.

A two-month gain in consumer prices shows that household finances are finally benefiting from the recovery in the economy and corporate earnings.

A possible slowdown in the U.S. economy is clear. Demand for overseas goods cannot be sustained at the current level.

There's no cloud in the sky right now, ... Japan's economy is poised for a reacceleration. There's no question about that.

There's no cloud in the sky right now. Japan's economy is poised for a reacceleration. There's no question about that.

Earnings growth may also slow for technology companies in the region.