European markets poised for gains amid persistent tariff concerns

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European equity futures indicate a positive opening on Monday, signaling cautious optimism among investors despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding the impending U.S. tariff deadline scheduled for April 2.

EuroSTOXX 50 futures advanced by 0.63%, while Germany's DAX futures climbed 0.53%, and the FTSE futures were up 0.31%. This uptick follows reassurance from recent reports and official commentary suggesting that forthcoming U.S. tariffs, although still expected to be implemented, may not reflect the most aggressive scenarios initially feared by market participants.

Traders are closely monitoring Eurozone Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) figures due today. Citi analysts note these PMIs will provide crucial insights into the real economy's reaction to Germany's recent fiscal stimulus, shifting investor focus from financial market sentiment to tangible corporate responses.

Attention will also be directed towards the UK's fiscal policy updates, with British Chancellor Rachel Reeves expected to affirm commitment to existing fiscal discipline despite prevailing global economic turbulence during her budget update this Wednesday.

The European market outlook could further be buoyed by Klarna's upcoming U.S. IPO, potentially signaling the reopening of a stalled fintech IPO market in Britain. Market participants have suggested this flotation could renew investor interest and foster subsequent listings within the fintech sector.

Activist investment activity remains in focus after Elliott Management revealed nearly a 5% stake in German utility RWE. Meanwhile, in strategic corporate restructuring, Vivendi recently announced a reduction in its stake in Telecom Italia to 18.4%, down from 23.8%.

On the macroeconomic front, key inflation data will shape market sentiment later this week, including UK inflation data scheduled for release on Wednesday, and the U.S. Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) index—closely watched by the Federal Reserve—due out on Friday. These figures will be pivotal in gauging central bank policy trajectories, potentially impacting both equities and broader risk appetite.