The Jakarta Post - Asian stocks sank Friday as markets took a cue from Wall Street, which had a big sell-off after a batch of mixed reports on the global economy.
The economic picture from the U.S. was underwhelming. One report showed factory output fell, while another suggested hiring would continue. In Europe, the signs were more disappointing, with a report that first quarter economic output in the 18 country eurozone rose a less-than-expected 0.2 percent.