European markets open to close: stocks, data, and earnings

European stock markets had a mixed start to the week on Monday, with U.K. markets closed for a bank holiday. Investors are anticipating the latest economic data releases and corporate earnings reports scheduled for this week.

Germany’s DAX was up by 0.3%, while Italy’s FTSE MIB was down by 0.13% and the French CAC 40 declined by 0.56%.

Santander announced on Monday that Austria’s Erste Group Bank had acquired a significant stake in Poland-based Santander Bank Polska and the Polish asset manager Santander TFI, resulting in a surge in Erste Group’s shares.

Recent data revealed that Swiss inflation dropped to 0% in April compared to the same period last year, falling below expectations. In contrast, Turkish inflation rose by 3% in April, leading to an annual rate of 37.86%.

While the week started off quietly in terms of earnings reports, major companies like Novo Nordisk, BMW, Maersk, and Commerzbank are set to announce their financial results in the upcoming days. Central Banks in Europe, including Sweden’s Riskbank, Norway’s Norges Bank, and the Bank of England, will also be closely watched for their interest rate decisions.

In Asia, many markets were closed for a holiday, and Australian stocks declined following Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s reelection victory. U.S. stock futures were lower after a positive week for the S&P 500. Trade tensions and potential deals with the U.S.’ key partners remain a focal point for investors, along with the Federal Reserve’s upcoming interest rate decision, widely anticipated to remain unchanged.