European stocks push higher as economic data, central bank speakers eyed

Investing.com -- European stock markets pushed higher at the open on Monday as investors assessed economic data, monetary policy developments, and corporate earnings prospects.

Germany’s DAX index was up 0.24% by 3:30 am ET (8:30 GMT)  France’s CAC 40 was up 0.11%, and the UK’s FTSE 100 rose 0.19%. Data, central bank speakers ahead

Investors were looking ahead to the latest UK inflation data, due out on Wednesday, after data on Friday showed that the UK economy grew just 0.1% in the third quarter, missing expectations.

The euro zone is to release a final reading of inflation data on Tuesday and PMI data from across Europe is due out on Friday.

Ahead of that, investors will get the chance to hear from several regional central bank officials, including European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde and Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey. Market watchers will be on the lookout for any insights on the pace and scope of further rate cuts. U.S. rate outlook and Fed commentary anticipated

Uncertainty over U.S. interest rates lingered, with futures indicating a 62% chance of a Federal Reserve rate cut next month.

This followed hawkish remarks by Fed Chair Jerome Powell last week, emphasizing that there is no rush to loosen monetary policy.

At least seven Fed officials are slated to speak this week, with markets anticipating cautious commentary on the potential timing and pace of rate cuts.

Markets are also watching developments in the incoming U.S. administration. President-elect Donald Trump reportedly expanded his shortlist for Treasury Secretary, including former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh, billionaire Marc Rowan, Scott Bessent, and Howard Lutnick, reportedly Elon Musk’s preferred pick.

A Treasury choice focused on tariffs and debt-funded tax cuts could have significant implications for global trade and fiscal policy, influencing market sentiment. Japan’s policy outlook keeps yen in check

Currency markets showed limited early movement, with the dollar rising 0.4% to 154.78 yen. Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda refrained from providing specifics on the timing of potential rate hikes, though he left the door open for gradual tightening if economic conditions align with the central bank’s outlook.

Markets had been expecting clearer guidance, especially after Friday’s policy announcements. Pricing for a December rate hike to 0.5% remained steady at 54%, with full pricing not anticipated until March. Oil prices rise amid supply and demand dynamics

Crude oil prices moved higher on Monday, supported by ongoing geopolitical risks in the Middle East and a tighter global supply outlook.

By 3:30 am ET (8:30 GMT) Brent crude rose 0.5% to $71.40 per barrel, while U.S. crude (WTI) climbed 0.3% to $67.16.

Brent traded above $71, recovering some ground after last week’s 3.8% decline, with WTI edging closer to $67. A stronger dollar and concerns over China’s oil demand tempered gains but were outweighed by supply concerns.

Source: Investing.com