Asian markets mixed, Europe uniformly green, US futures slightly lower

Futures: S&P: -1.7 Dow: -28 Nas: -1.00

Asian markets were mixed overnight, but the Nikkei lost nearly 2% to set fresh 2-1/2 year lows amid concern for the strength in the yen against the dollar ($1 = 100.5 yen). European indices are up an average of 0.5% in a carry-over of yesterday's strength in US markets. The dollar is slightly higher against the euro and yen. Euro-zone Feb. inflation climbed a larger-than-expected 3.3%.
Gold @ $998.60 is making another move on $1000.
Likewise, copper @ $3.92 is within striking distance of $4/oz as LME stockpiles continue to fall.

EWV ultrashort Japan ETF
EWJ Japan ETF (long)