Stoxx Europe 600 mining index opened 1.5% higher.

Novo Nordisk (NVO.N) CEO said the company has no plans for major deals.

On Wednesday, softer USD and falling oil prices pushed spot gold up for a third session, rising 2.29% intraday to $4,170/oz, its highest since July 7. Investors await US jobs data for clues on the rate outlook. OANDA senior market analyst Kelvin Wong said: "The link between gold and oil remains, as oil has a large impact on inflationary pressure in the global economy. If we can see a clear roadmap for further de-escalation (in the Middle East), gold prices may continue to rise." Traders price a 59% chance of a Fed hike at the Sept. 15-16 meeting, down from 67% a day earlier.