US stocks extended their rally with major U.S. indexes hitting all-time highs as the Federal Reserve again reassured investors that it was flexible on the timing for ending its stimulus program.
European stocks scaled six-week highs with banks rallying after the European Central Bank eased collateral rules, and with strong sales boosting the media and luxury sectors.
Asian shares inched up to a near five-week high after Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke pledged to keep monetary policy easy for the foreseeable future.