Global stocks rose on Friday while oil prices headed for their biggest weekly gain in two years, as escalating tensions in the Middle East kept markets on edge. With the all-important monthly U.S. nonfarm payrolls report just ahead at 1230 GMT (0830 EDT),

Traders are looking ahead to the Friday jobs report, which should give more insight into the strength of the economy and the Fed's next rate move.

U.S. stocks finished lower on Thursday ahead of Friday's monthly U.S. payrolls report and as investors kept a watchful eye on the growing conflict in the Middle East. Data on Thursday showed that the number of Americans filing new applications for unemployment benefits rose marginally last week,

Asian shares were mostly higher Friday after worsening tensions in the Middle East sent stocks lower on Wall Street while boosting crude prices. Japan's benchmark Nikkei 225 edged up 0.2% to finish at 38,

Wall Street was poised to open slightly lower on Thursday after a moderate rise in jobless claims sparked worries about the health of the labor market, while cautious investors kept an eye on the Middle East for any escalation in hostilities.