Nikkei hits 20,000 level for first time in 15 years

Investors were focused on Japan as the country's benchmark Nikkei 225 index traded above 20,000 for the first time since April 2000.

In Tokyo, the index was up 0.3% to 20,004.99 in early trade as investors hoped for larger shareholder returns and a recovery in domestic consumption.
The shares were also boosted by the positive tone set in global markets, with Wall Street ending higher after a strong performance by energy stocks.
The Nikkei is up nearly 15% this year.
Australian shares traded flat with the S&P/ASX 200 index opening at 5,934.3.
Shares of mining giant BHP Billiton weighed on the benchmark, down 1% on lower iron ore prices.
In South Korea, the Kospi was up 0.6% to 2,071.35