The European Central Bank said on Thursday that the global economic outlook has become more uncertain after Britain's vote to leave the European Union.

The ECB also expressed readiness to act if needed to support euro zone inflation. But the central bank added that it was awaiting more information to make any decision on new policy moves.

Meanwhile, Euro zone business activity expanded faster than expected in July. That came on the back of a surge in Germany despite stagnation in France and a slower pace in Spain and Italy.

The European Central Bank last month left interest rates unchanged but said more stimulus could be on the way.