FX.co ★ European Stocks Trade Higher

European stock markets experienced a modest uptick on Thursday, with both the Stoxx 50 and Stoxx 600 indices rising by 0.3%. Investors remained attentive to upcoming central bank rate announcements and closely monitored corporate earnings. There was increased optimism regarding trade relations between the UK and U.S., as reports indicated that Britain might be the first nation to reach an agreement following the imposition of new U.S. tariffs.

In corporate news, Puma SE reported a stable performance for the first quarter, providing reassurance despite the absence of a CEO. AB InBev achieved profits at the upper limit of its guidance, boosted by sales volumes that exceeded expectations. Maersk also surpassed forecasts for its first-quarter operating profit and maintained its full-year outlook. Siemens Energy revised its forecast upwards after a robust quarter, which benefited from favorable market conditions, although the company cautioned about a profit impact due to tariffs.

The focus now turns to interest rate decisions from Sweden's Riksbank, Norway’s Norges Bank, and particularly the Bank of England. The latter is anticipated to reduce rates in response to easing inflation and uncertainties affecting the global economy.