European Markets Set for Higher Open

European equity markets are set to open slightly higher, with investors eyeing US economic data ahead of the Federal Reserve's expected rate cut. European focus is on Ukraine peace talks and upcoming central bank meetings, including the Swiss National Bank, European Central Bank, Bank of England, and Sweden's Riksbank. Euro Stoxx 50 futures rose 0.2%, while Stoxx 600 futures remained flat.

The Athens Stock Exchange Composite Index in Greece closed up 0.20% at 2090.64 points, showing a V-shaped reversal throughout the day

European Stocks: European stocks rise in early trading, several car stocks perform well, Philips declines by 6%

European stocks generally rose in early trading as market expectations for a Federal Reserve rate cut increased. The pan-European STOXX 600 index rose by 0.2%, and the German DAX index rose by 0.7%. Philips' stock price fell by 6%, while several automotive stocks such as Geely, Mercedes-Benz, and Renault rose by over 3%. The performance of the Asia-Pacific stock markets was mixed, with Japanese stocks rising by 2.3% and South Korean stocks falling by 0.2%

Spain won't use bulk of EU recovery fund loans as economy growing fast, minister says

Spain's Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo announced that Spain will use only 25% of EU recovery fund loans due to its fast-growing economy, which can issue debt independently. Spain's economy has outpaced its European peers, reducing its public debt burden. The country focuses on direct EU transfers for sectors like green energy. Spain has not been significantly impacted by US tariffs, and aims to double trade with Canada and finalize a Mercosur-EU trade agreement.

Irish corporate tax receipts surge 36% in key payment month

Ireland's corporate tax receipts surged 36% in November, collecting 10 billion euros, driven by U.S. multinationals. This increase pushed the overall tax take 8.2% higher year-on-year, excluding Apple back taxes. Income tax and VAT also rose significantly. The finance ministry forecasts corporate tax receipts to reach 32 billion euros in 2025, with increased spending on public services and infrastructure. Ireland reported a headline exchequer surplus of 10.4 billion euros at the end of November.