European shares climb ahead of PMI readings

European shares gained on Friday as the World Health Organization stopped short of calling the virus outbreak in China a global emergency, with focus turning to flash PMI readings from major economies in the region.

After four consecutive sessions of declines, the pan-European STOXX 600 climbed 0.8% by 0804 GMT. Germany's DAX rose the most among regional peers, lifted by gains in Bayer after a report on a possible out-of-court settlement of a U.S. jury trial over allegations that its weed killer Roundup causes cancer.

IHS Markit's flash Purchasing Manager's index readings for France, Germany, Britain, and the eurozone, due on Friday, will offer clues about the economic health of the bloc. The UK PMI readings will be crucial ahead of the Bank of England's interest rate decision next week.