European Shares Surge Amid Fed Rate Cut Speculation

European shares hit a 2-1/2 week high, driven by Wall Street rallies and speculation over potential Federal Reserve rate cuts. Investors are focused on the Fed's upcoming announcements and Jerome Powell's Jackson Hole speech. Strong U.S. economic indicators have eased recession fears, further boosting market confidence.

European shares soared to their highest levels in 2-1/2 weeks on Tuesday, reflecting a Wall Street rally driven by speculation that the Federal Reserve may hint at imminent rate cuts later this week.

With a light data calendar across major economies, investors are closely watching Wednesday's release of the Fed's July meeting minutes, followed by Chair Jerome Powell's speech at Jackson Hole on Friday, for future U.S. rate clues. Recent signals from Fed policymakers indicate a potential rate easing in September, setting a similar tone for Powell and other speakers at the Jackson Hole meeting of global central bankers.

In Europe, the STOXX 600 index climbed 0.2%, reaching its highest level since August 1. The market rebounded from recession fears prompted by a previous weak U.S. labor market report, bolstered by strong U.S. economic indicators such as retail sales, business surveys, and jobless claims.

(With inputs from agencies.)