16.12.202506:07:25UTC+00European Markets Head for Lower Open

European stock markets were poised for a subdued start on Tuesday as investors braced themselves for the release of a delayed U.S. employment report, potentially influencing forecasts regarding Federal Reserve's monetary policy directions. Focus has also shifted to a slate of central bank decisions within Europe, with the Bank of England anticipated to lower interest rates by 25 basis points. Concurrently, the European Central Bank, the Swedish Riksbank, and Norway's Norges Bank are expected to maintain their current monetary policies. In addition to these central bank developments, investors will closely examine a range of regional economic data, such as preliminary PMI figures, indicators of German economic sentiment, and labor market statistics from the UK. On the geopolitical stage, there is growing optimism regarding a possible peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, following the United States' proposal of NATO-style security assurances for Kyiv, although challenges remain concerning territorial compromises. Prior to the market opening, futures for the Euro Stoxx 50 and Stoxx 600 were down by 0.6% and 0.5%, respectively.