European stocks opened higher on Friday, driven by strong corporate earnings and cautious optimism in global markets. By mid-morning in London, the pan-European Stoxx 600 was up 0.5%, with most major indexes, including France’s CAC 40 and Germany’s DAX, recording modest gains. Investors remained attentive to both company results and geopolitical developments affecting international trade.
German sportswear giant Adidas was a standout performer, with shares jumping 5.7% after the company released a preliminary earnings report. The figures showed a 13% increase in currency-neutral revenue, reaching a record €24.8 billion ($29.6 billion) in 2025. Analysts say this robust growth reflects the brand’s strong global demand and strategic market expansion.
Spain’s CaixaBank also impressed investors, reporting a net profit of €5.89 billion ($7 billion), exceeding expectations. The bank raised its dividends by 15% to €0.50 per share and updated its growth and profitability forecasts, describing 2025 as a “great year.” Shares of CaixaBank rose 4.4% following the announcement, reflecting positive market sentiment.
Global politics continued to influence markets, as U.S. President Donald Trump commented on international tensions. He warned of potential risks in UK-China deals and highlighted ongoing developments in Ukraine and Iran, which have created volatility in oil and commodity markets. Investors are closely monitoring these situations for potential impacts on European and global markets.
Meanwhile, U.S. stock futures dipped slightly ahead of a highly anticipated Federal Reserve announcement. Trump is expected to name a successor to Jerome Powell, with former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh currently leading predictions. Market watchers noted that Warsh’s more hawkish past could influence interest rate expectations, contributing to overnight declines in Treasuries and equity futures.
source: cnbc