Asia mixed as uncertainty looms before FOMC

Asian markets were a mixed bag on Monday morning, with few strong movements on the main bourses, in signs that traders are embracing the calm before the storm arrives on Thursday. Recent market volatility has caused some forecasters to delay their expected lift-off date, but a large camp of economists still think Thursday will be the big day.

The latest US employment figures underscore why many still believe September 17 will be the Fed's preferred date, with unemployment sliding to 5.1% in August, the lowest in over eight years, which is also what the Fed deems 'full employment.'

Japan's benchmark Nikkei 225 index fell 0.22% to 18,224.04 points within the first hour of trade, while Tokyo's broader Topix gauge slid 0.09% to 1,478.93 points.

Hong Kong's benchmark Hang Seng index advanced 0.82% to 21,679.72 points at the opening bell, and mainland China's benchmark Shanghai Composite grew 0.63% to 3,220.31 points at the same time.

Korea's benchmark Kospi index slipped 0.18% to 1,937.87 points this morning in Seoul.

The benchmark Australian S&P/ASX 200 index traded 0.69% higher at 5,106.10 points in Sydney, with strong gains in media and banking shares.

New Zealand's benchmark S&P/NZX 50 index rose 0.35% to 5,667.90 points this afternoon in Wellington.