European stocks scored modest gains Thursday, with mining shares battling against dollar strength during a quieter-than-usual session with U.S. markets closed for the Thanksgiving holiday. "The usual Thanksgiving calm has descended across markets, as European investors reconcile themselves to a day of low volumes and quiet trading," said Chris Beauchamp, chief market analyst at IG, in an note.

U.S. stock futures edged up on Thursday, as traders focused on their Thanksgiving Day celebrations rather than making big bets. U.S. stock markets and the bond market are closed Thursday for the holiday, and equity trading hours will be shortened on Friday.

Asian share markets were broadly higher early Friday, with Japan's Nikkei leading after the yen hit a fresh eight-month low against the dollar, helping boost the competitiveness of the country's exports.