The Tokyo Stock Exchange opened sharply lower Monday as investors reacted to the consequences of a massive natural disaster that is still unfolding.

Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, which owns among other properties the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs, the NBA's Toronto Raptors, and Toronto FC of MLS, is up for sale, according to a report in Montreal's La Presse.

American consumers bought new cars, clothing and electronics in February, pushing retail sales up for an eighth straight month, the U.S. Commerce Department reported Friday.

The massive earthquake that struck off the Japanese coast Friday morning spooked investors worldwide and sent oil prices sharply lower.

The Royal Bank of Canada says the economy will grow by 3.2 per cent this year, assuming American rising demand for consumer goods and autos.