European stocks declined, dragging the Stoxx Europe 600 Index from a 2 1/2 year high, as China raised the reserve requirement ratio for its domestic lenders. U.S. futures dropped, while Asian shares climbed.

Rentokil Initial Plc slumped 8.1 percent as the world’s largest maker of pest-control products posted a loss for 2010. Voestalpine AG gained 1.8 percent as Austria’s biggest steelmaker increased its profit forecast for 2011.

The Stoxx 600 lost 0.3 percent in London, as more than two stocks fell for every one that gained. Even so, the gauge is heading for a weekly gain of 0.8 percent, its third straight weekly advance.

France's Lafarge rose 3.7 percent after it predicted stronger cement demand in its markets this year thanks to fast economic growth in emerging countries and announced a tarmac venture with UK mining company Anglo-American.

Oil stocks tracked Brent crude prices higher as Middle East tensions fanned fears of a supply disruption, with the STOXX Europe 600 Oil & Gas up 0.6 percent.

Asian stocks rose, driving the regional benchmark index toward its best week since the third of December as Taiwan announced faster-than-estimated economic growth and companies increased earnings forecasts.

Japan’s Topix index fell for the first time in 10 days on speculation gains have outpaced prospects for earnings and on concern a rebellion among lawmakers will derail plans to cut corporate tax rates. The Topix index slid 0.1 percent with about eight stocks retreating for every six that gained at the close in Tokyo. The Nikkei 225 Stock Average gained 0.1 percent.