Asian Stocks End Higher; Europe Gains

On Thursday in the U.S, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 172.54, or 2.1%, to 8,472.40, after falling 40 points in the early going. It was the biggest point and percentage gain for the blue chips since June 1.

The broader S&P 500 index rose 19.32, or 2.1%, to 920.26.

Oil prices rose above $71 a barrel as investors mulled mixed signs about the strength of the U.S. economy and crude demand. Benchmark crude for August delivery added 79 cents to $71.02. On Thursday, it gained $1.56.

The dollar traded at 95.89 yen compared with 95.82 yen. The euro strengthened to $1.4026 from $1.4004.