Asian markets opened mixed, with the Nikkei 225 and ASX 200 gaining while the Kospi fell. Concerns over China's economic recovery persist as November retail sales rose only 3.0%, below expectations, indicating limited success of stimulus measures. The Hang Seng index has struggled to maintain its recent gains, with potential declines ahead. Attention now shifts to US retail sales data, expected to show resilience in consumer spending, as the Federal Reserve prepares for a slower pace of rate cuts.