European markets started the week on a weaker note, with the pan-European Stoxx 600 slipping 0.2% in early trading on Monday. Major regional indexes were largely in negative territory, with Germany’s DAX falling 0.4% and France’s CAC 40 down 0.3%. U.K. markets remained closed for a public holiday.
Investor sentiment remains cautious as markets digest comments from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who indicated on Friday that the central bank could soon cut interest rates. Meanwhile, traders are also evaluating fresh details on the recent U.S.-EU trade agreement, which offered clarity to sectors like pharmaceuticals and manufacturing.
The biggest market mover of the day was Danish windfarm developer Orsted, whose shares plunged nearly 18% after U.S. authorities ordered a halt to the construction of a major offshore wind project off Rhode Island. The decision casts uncertainty over Orsted’s capital-raising plans and broader renewable energy expansion strategy.
In corporate news, U.S. beverage giant Keurig Dr Pepper announced a €15.7 billion ($18.4 billion) acquisition of Dutch coffee maker JDE Peet’s, sending the latter’s shares soaring by up to 17% in early trading. The deal highlights growing consolidation in the global beverage sector as companies seek to strengthen their positions in key markets.
Looking ahead, the week is expected to be light on economic data until Friday, when inflation figures from France, Germany, and Italy will be released. Investors will also monitor earnings reports from major firms including Pernod Ricard in Europe and Nvidia in the U.S., as global markets navigate mixed signals on economic growth and monetary policy.
Source: cnbc