Tensions on the Korean Peninsula showed no signs of easing after the UN Security Council criticized North Korea’s test of a nuclear bomb as a “clear violation” of international bans. But the country’s defiance continued with reports saying it would likely step up its weapons testing by firing short-range missiles this week.

While hurting sentiment in the short term, the standoff was more an excuse to take a breather from the recent rally, analyst said.

Caution ahead of upcoming economic reports in the US, as well as Wall Street and British market holidays Monday, also left investors with few reasons to set a course one way or the other.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 stock average fell 19 points, or 0.2pc, to 9,327.82, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rose 19.91 points, or 0.1pc, to 17,141.73 in an erratic session.

In South Korea, the Kospi was off 2.4pc at 1,367.02. The benchmark dived over 6pc on Monday on news of North Korea’s nuclear test before recovering nearly all its losses.

Elsewhere, Shanghai’s index lost 0.1pc, Australia’s benchmark was up 1.1pc and Taiwan’s market dropped 0.8pc.

Both US and British financial markets were closed Monday for holidays. European markets finished little changed on Monday.

With investors eyeing key US economic reports this week, including home sales, big-ticket manufactured goods and consumer confidence, Wall Street futures pointed to a slightly lower open on Tuesday. Dow futures were down 11, or 0.1pc, at 8,249 and S&P; futures fell 0.4, or 0.1pc, to 884.50.

Oil prices fell Asia trade ahead of OPEC’s meeting this week, with benchmark crude for July delivery trading at $60.93 a barrel, down 74 cents from overnight trade.

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