Stock market today: Asian shares are mixed, as Hong Kong retreats on selling of property shares

Shares are mixed in Asia, with Hong Kong retreating on selling of property shares following recent gains. U.S. futures edged higher and oil prices slipped. U.S. markets were closed on Thursday and European shares edged higher in thin trading. Japan reported its consumer inflation rose for the first time in four months, with big gains in food prices and hotel rates as tourism has soared. Wall Street will have only a half-day's trading on Friday. Investors are watching to see how American retailers fare with the unofficial kick off of the holiday shopping season with Black Friday, given growing concerns that spending may slow under pressure from dwindling savings, rising credit card debt and inflation.