Asian stocks held broadly higher on Thursday as geopolitical concerns eased and oil prices steadied on data showing a lower-than-expected buildup in oil inventories. Traders also cheered the prospects of fresh stimulus amid mounting speculation the European Central Bank will ease its policy further at its meeting next week. While prospects of fresh monetary stimulus kept the euro under pressure, gold hovered close to its lowest level in nearly six years on the dollar strength. The safe-haven Japanese yen weakened in the wake of improved risk appetite. Chinese shares were little changed despite the government lowering ... (full story)