NEW YORK/LONDON, Dec 4 : Global shares edged up on Thursday, powered by expectations that a U.S. rate cut will support the world's largest economy after data showed employment is slowing, while the dollar was lower and poised for its 10th straight day of losses against a basket of major currencies.

U.S. stocks were losing ground in early trade after two consecutive sessions of gains, with the benchmark S&P 500 flat. Healthcare, consumer discretionary and materials stocks were suffering the most losses, while real estate, financials and utilities were advancing.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.09 per cent, the S&P 500 edged down 0.06 per cent and the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.14 per cent.

In Europe, the STOXX 600 was up 0.42 per cent and still headed for a modest weekly gain. Londo

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