Japan's factory output declined in November, weighed by falls in autos production and clouding the outlook for the export-reliant economy.
China's manufacturing activity likely contracted for the third consecutive month, a Reuters poll showed on Thursday, weighed by soft demand for manufactured goods, a reading that would embolden calls for more policy support.
Asian shares scaled five-month peaks on Thursday as market wagers on ever-more aggressive rate cuts extended a huge rally in U.S. stocks and bonds, while also leaving plenty of scope for disappointment in the new year.
Oil prices steadied on Thursday after falling sharply in the previous session, as concerns eased about shipping disruptions along the Red Sea route even as tensions in the Middle East continued to rise.
The dollar nursed steep losses on Thursday and was headed for a yearly decline, while the Swiss franc perched at a nine-year peak and the euro at a five-month high on expectations that 2024 will bring deep rate cuts.
Thailand will increase its minimum wage in January, the government said on Tuesday, confirming a previous deal while planning to raise it further in March.