Global stocks rise on US stocks' gains and weaker yen

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Global stocks were mostly higher Thursday, after U.S. stocks were lifted by an uptick in oil prices.

THE QUOTE: "Asian markets are breaking out," said Chris Weston, IG Chief Market Strategist.

Japan's benchmark Nikkei 225 ended 2.7 percent higher at 17,363.62, as exporters' shares gained, since a weaker yen usually tends to boost their profits.

Benchmark U.S. crude oil shed earlier gains, losing 6 cents to $44.12 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange after a settlement of $44.18 a barrel on Wednesday.