A-share innovative-drug sector rallied in the afternoon; Boteng hit the daily price limit, Yaoshi Technology and Haoyuan Pharmaceutical climbed over 15%, while Hongbo Pharmaceutical, Medisi and Betta Pharmaceuticals also advanced.

European closes Aug 6: Germany's DAX +20.00 pts (+0.08%) to 26,159.03; UK's FTSE 100 -15.39 pts (-0.14%) to 10,872.91; France's CAC 40 +30.41 pts (+0.35%) to 8,699.71; Euro Stoxx 50 +30.27 pts (+0.47%) to 6,507.25; Spain's IBEX 35 +122.90 pts (+0.61%) to 20,179.90; Italy's FTSE MIB +259.20 pts (+0.48%) to 53,706.00.

German government is considering nominating Bundesbank president Nagel for the European Central Bank presidency, sources said. Speculation that ECB president Lagarde could leave early has made Nagel’s candidacy a central internal debate in Berlin. Officials say failing to back Nagel would amount to abandoning Germany’s bid; they judge his chances as low but view running him as worth pursuing to gain leverage for other senior ECB posts, notably ECB chief economist. The appointment is likely the most consequential personnel decision euro-area governments will face in the coming months; Nagel has indicated he is open to the opportunity.