Bank of Japan 'to raise outlook' Japan's central bank is ready to declare that the economy is expanding for the first time in 15 years, reports say.
Shop sales helped by late Easter Retail sales for April rose by 6.8% on last year, helped by a late Easter, says the British Retail Consortium.
Australia unveils huge tax cuts Australian unveils income tax cuts worth more than $28bn, taking advantage of a windfall from the booming minerals market.
Hope over Puerto Rico debt crisis Puerto Rican politicians agree to back a commission's findings, raising hope of a solution to its fiscal crisis.
Oil up as Iran letter hopes fade The price of oil leaps back above $70 a barrel after fears about Iran's nuclear ambition are heightened.
EU lifts eurozone growth estimate The eurozone will grow by 2.1% this year, the European Commission says, up from a previous forecast of 1.9%.
Palestinian Authority 'at risk' The cash-strapped Palestinian Authority may collapse if staff continue to have to go without wages, the World Bank warns.
Three Gorges Dam 'built by May' Construction of China's Three Gorges Dam is likely to be completed nine months ahead of schedule, reports say.
