European Stocks Head for Higher Open

European stocks rose on Wednesday, with the STOXX 50 gaining 0.9% and the STOXX 600 adding 0.4%, marking a third consecutive session of gains. Investors remained focused on key monetary policy decisions this week, including the Federal Reserve’s announcement later in the day. Meanwhile, renewed optimism around AI and a decline in oil prices helped lift market sentiment. Iraq reached a deal to resume exports via Turkey’s Ceyhan port, easing concerns over supply disruptions linked to the Iran war. The US also stepped up efforts to push for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Also, Nvidia’s CEO highlighted a rapidly emerging AI project, OpenClaw, as a significant advancement in human interaction with AI. Tech, financials and industrials were the top performing sectors. ASML Holdings soared 2.5% and HSBC added 1.2%.

European equity markets were set for a higher open on Wednesday as oil prices retreated after Iraq reached a deal to resume exports via Turkey’s Ceyhan port, easing concerns over supply disruptions linked to the Iran war. The US also stepped up efforts to push for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, though allied nations have so far rejected President Donald Trump’s call to help safeguard shipping through the narrow waterway. Meanwhile, investors are set to assess final Eurozone inflation data for February ahead of an expected rate hold from the European Central Bank later this week. There are no major earnings releases scheduled in Europe today. In premarket trading, Euro Stoxx 50 futures rose about 0.8%.

The STOXX 50 rose 0.5% and the STOXX 600 gained 0.7%on Tuesday, recovering from lackluster morning trading and extending modest gains from the previous session despite an escalation in the conflict with Iran. Uncertainty continues to surround the formation of an international coalition, with some countries appearing reluctant to align with US President Donald Trump’s proposal. Meanwhile, Iran stepped up attacks on energy infrastructure across the Persian Gulf, while Israel reported it had killed Iran’s security chief, further heightening tensions. As a result, oil prices moved higher once again. Utilities and energy led the gains, with financials also trading higher. Enel, TotalEnergies, and Eni rose close to 3% each. In contrast, luxury brands fell sharply with Hermes and LVMH dropping nearly 2% each.