MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan were down 0.1% in early trade but stood near its eight-month peak hit on Wednesday. Investors expect an interest rate cut from the Bank of England in the aftermath of the Brexit decision. Financial markets expect the Bank of England to announce a rate cut later on Thursday. Asian shares held near eight-month high on Thursday as investors bet the Bank of England will cut rates in a pre-emptive strike to ward off a recession following the country's decision to leave the European Union. Global benchmark Brent crude futures rose 0.8% to $46.41 per barrel in early Asian trade.

Source: dna July 14, 2016 03:00 UTC