Asian stocks rose as Bank of Japan minutes showed policy makers are considering steps to boost the economy, and before U.S. retail sales data expected to signal demand is recovering in the world’s largest economy.

Nikkei 225 8,929.88 +44.73 +0.50%

S&P/ASX 200 4,292.2 +8.91 +0.21%

Shanghai Composite 2,142.52 +6.45 +0.30%

Yue Yuen Industrial Holdings Ltd., which makes shoes for Nike Inc., rose 1.1 percent in Hong Kong.

Noble Group Ltd., Asia’s biggest-listed commodity supplier, gained 7.2 percent in Singapore after second-quarter profit rose 39 percent.

Swire Properties Ltd. slumped 5.7 in Hong Kong after saying John Swire & Sons Ltd. is selling shares in the commercial landlord.