British inflation sped up by more than expected to hit a 10-month high of 3.0% in January and it is likely to rise further soon, testing the Bank of England's confidence that price pressures are on a downward path over the longer term.

Japan's exports rose for a fourth consecutive month in January led by auto shipments to the United States, but if U.S. President Donald Trump goes through with a plan to impose hefty car tariffs, a sharp drop-off is likely.

Continental's automotive branch plans to cut 3,000 jobs in its research and development segment by the end of 2026, the company said on Tuesday.

Most Asian stocks retreated on Wednesday after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose more import tariffs on key sectors, while South Korean shares rallied to a five-month high on strength in technology. 

Oil prices edged up on Wednesday amid worries of oil supply disruptions in the U.S. and Russia, and as markets awaited clarity on the Ukraine peace talks.

The U.S. dollar strengthened against major currencies on Tuesday, led by gains versus the euro, driven by safe-haven bids amid tariff worries and tension-filled negotiations on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.