Japan data - Nikkei / Markit Manufacturing PMI (April, preliminary): 53.3 (prior 53.1)

Flash Japan Manufacturing PMI from Markit

Commenting on the Japanese Manufacturing PMI survey data, Joe Hayes, Economist at IHS Markit, which compiles the survey, said:

• "Survey data depicted a positive backdrop in the Japanese manufacturing sector during April. The improvement in the headline PMI was underpinned by stronger rates of growth in output, new orders and employment. Furthermore, business confidence strengthened, while output prices were hiked to a stronger degree, signalling optimism in demand conditions.
• "Although new export orders declined for the first time since August 2016, as the stronger yen begins to impact price competitiveness, the rise in total new business inflows signals stronger domestic demand."

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Yen a touch weaker on the session with encouraging Korea developments cited as the main reason.

• ICYMI: North Korea pledge to suspend nuclear & missile tests - effective immediately
• North Korea will have to 'earn' lifting of sanctions, senior Trump admin official says
• South Korean media says South has halted propaganda broadcasts at border with North