Asian stocks rose, with the regional benchmark index headed for a second monthly gain, on speculation the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank may signal their readiness to stimulate growth amid signs of a global economic slowdown, boosting the earnings outlook for exporters.

Nikkei 225 8,695.06 +59.62 +0.69%

S&P/ASX 200 4,269.2 +23.49 +0.55%

Shanghai Composite 2,103.67 -6.24 -0.30%

Canon Inc., the world’s biggest camera maker, advanced 5.8 percent in Tokyo on a share buyback plan, pacing gains among information technology shares.

Hokuriku Electric Power Co. soared 14 percent, leading Japanese utilities higher after raising its sales forecast.

Campbell Brothers Ltd., a provider of laboratory services for the mining industry, slumped 10 percent in Sydney after saying volatility and uncertainty in the global economy may have a negative earnings impact.