Asian markets ended the week on a positive note following the lead from Wall Street, with energy firms lifted by a rally in oil prices.

Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India on Friday ceremonially broke ground on the Afghan section of an ambitious, multi-billion dollar gas pipeline expected to help ease energy deficits in South Asia.

Australia's largest bank the Commonwealth on Friday denied a slew of new claims by the country's financial intelligence agency that it breached anti-money laundering laws, and rejected a major class action over the allegations.

French fraud authorities on Thursday accused supermarket chain Intermarche of illegally selling Nutella below cost, after heavy discounts sparked a shopping frenzy that made international headlines.

Britain's economy expanded last year less than first thought, official data revealed on Thursday, adding to concerns that Brexit uncertainty was impacting growth.

Saudi Arabia announced plans Thursday to spend billions on building new venues and flying in Western acts, in a total overhaul of its entertainment sector that would been unthinkable not long ago.

Long known for its ultra-conservative mores, the kingdom has embarked on a wide-ranging programme of social and economic reforms driven by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. 

Most Asian markets sank on Thursday, fuelling fears of fresh volatility after Federal Reserve minutes fanned expectations US interest rates would rise further.

Half of Air France's long-haul flights out of Paris Thursday will be canceled due to a strike by pilots, cabin crew and ground staff, the carrier said.

Philippine officials are headed to Kuwait on Thursday to seek greater protection for migrant workers after a diplomatic row over the alleged mistreatment of Filipinos in the Gulf state. 

Austrian oil and gas group OMV said Wednesday that it returned to profit last year, helped liked its rivals by a rise in crude prices.