Thailand's manufacturing production index unexpectedly rose 3.43% in April from a year earlier, increasing for the first time in 19 months, helped by higher exports and tourism, the industry ministry said on Thursday.

British businesses are their most confident in eight years and their hiring plans are the strongest since 2017, according to a survey published on Friday that added to signs of a recovery in the economy as a national election approaches.

Chinese manufacturing activity unexpectedly contracted in May, purchasing managers index data showed on Friday, as an initial boost from bumper stimulus measures by Beijing now appeared to be running out of steam. 

China's manufacturing activity unexpectedly fell in May, keeping alive calls for fresh stimulus as a protracted property crisis in the world's second-largest economy continues to weigh on business, consumer and investor confidence.

The U.S. economy expanded by less than anticipated in the first quarter, while a key measure of inflation slowed by more than initially expected.

Asian stocks rose on Friday and were poised for the fourth month of gains, while the dollar drifted lower, keeping the yen steady as investors await inflation readings from Europe and the U.S. that will likely dictate the path of interest rates globally.