Global stocks subdued after mixed economic data

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Global stock markets were subdued on Thursday as investors digested mixed economic data in Europe and looked ahead to the key U.S. monthly jobs report on Friday.

Indicators for the 19-country eurozone showed economic activity eased slightly in February, though retail sales rose.

"Overall, today's data do not alter our view that growth in the eurozone is slowing and that the ECB will need to loosen policy next week," said Jessica Hinds, analyst at Capital Economics.

Chinese leaders were expected to lower their growth target during the upcoming gathering of the National People's Congress this week as China seeks more flexibility for structural reforms for the slowing, state-dominated economy.