Asian markets ease, Tokyo weighs quake impact

Asian traders took a step back Friday after a rally across global markets this week, as China released data showing the world's number-two economy grew at its slowest rate in seven years during the first quarter. Japanese investors were also cautious as they assess the impact of a powerful 6.5-magnitude earthquake that struck the country overnight, killing least nine people and forcing the closure of the factories of several major manufacturers. Shares around the world have piled higher this wee