Japan's factory output rose for a second straight month in October, government data showed on Thursday, lifted by the production of integrated circuits and autos, although external demand risks loomed.

Asian stocks were poised to clock their strongest performance in 10 months at the end of Thursday's trading, even as most regional stock markets opened listless after mixed messages from the Fed and a similar struggle in U.S. stocks overnight.

Vietnam's parliament on Wednesday decided to further extend a reduction in value-added tax (VAT) on goods and services until the end of June 2024.

Euro zone economic sentiment increased slightly for a second consecutive month in November, in line with expectations, as a modest up-tick of the mood in services, retail and amongst consumers outweighed a decline in manufacturers' confidence.

China's manufacturing activity likely contracted for a second consecutive month in November, a Reuters poll showed on Wednesday, keeping alive calls for further stimulus measures as factory owners struggle for orders both at home and abroad.

Chinese manufacturing activity declined further in November, as the sector saw increased headwinds from slowing overseas demand, while growth in the non-manufacturing sector also deteriorated.