European stock markets were set to open lower on Thursday as global sentiment weakened amid escalating geopolitical tensions and cautious central bank signals.
US officials are reportedly preparing for a potential strike on Iran, raising fears of a broader conflict and deeper US involvement in the Middle East. Adding to the cautious tone, the US Federal Reserve held interest rates steady and signaled a wait-and-see approach, citing renewed inflation risks tied to President Trump’s tariffs.
In Europe, attention turns to a series of central bank decisions, with the Bank of England expected to keep rates unchanged, while the Swiss National Bank is likely to cut its policy rate to zero.
Rate decisions are also due from central banks in Norway and Turkey.
In premarket trading, Euro Stoxx 50 futures fell 0.2%, while Stoxx 600 futures declined 0.3%.