FX.co ★ European Markets Poised for Higher Open

European equity markets appeared poised for a positive opening on Wednesday, as investors seemed unfazed by escalating global trade tensions. In a move widely anticipated, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to increase tariffs on steel imports to 50%, following through on a promise made the previous Friday. The European Union promptly criticized the measure, warning that it disrupts ongoing trade negotiations and reiterated its readiness to impose countermeasures if necessary. Despite these geopolitical concerns, the market's attention is turning towards regional economic data. Investors are particularly focused on analyzing services activity figures from Spain and Italy, as well as Poland’s latest monetary policy decision. In premarket activity, futures for both the Euro Stoxx 50 and Stoxx 600 were up approximately 0.3%, indicating a modestly optimistic opening.