Euro-area economic confidence rose to the highest level in a decade as European Central Bank policy makers prepare for a discussion next week about whether and how to pare back stimulus. SEE MORE After some consolidation at the end of last week, further strength has returned to the base metals this week, with copper prices pushing the envelope on the upside, while the rest of the complex has also seen prices head back towards recent highs. SEE MORE Euro zone economic sentiment jumped more than expected in August thanks to more optimism in the industry and service sectors and among consumers, monthly survey data from the European Commission showed on Wednesday. SEE MORE Zinc prices have been surging since the beginning of the month, and broke the $3,000-per-ounce mark on August 16. Supply concerns, a strong demand outlook from China and a decline in warehouse inventories have supported the increase. SEE MORE The dollar rebounded from a 2-1/2-year low on Wednesday, and Asian stocks took their cue from Wall Street’s stronger close, as concerns about North Korea’s firing of a missile over Japan ebbed. SEE MORE