European Stocks Surge Amid Trade Hopes and Earnings Anticipation

European shares rose with the STOXX 600 index up 0.4%. Investors eye tariff talks and key earnings data, though U.S.-China trade tensions persist. European favorites include HSBC, Societe Generale, and Barclays, while Apple and Microsoft lead U.S. company interest. Deliveroo's shares increased post DoorDash offer.

European shares continued their upward trajectory on Monday, benefiting from positive developments in trade talks and upcoming earnings reports. The STOXX 600 index, a key benchmark, recorded a 0.4% rise early in the trading session.

Key regional markets, including Germany, France, Spain, and the UK, followed suit with gains between 0.3% and 0.5%, buoyed by easing U.S.-China trade tensions, despite mixed signals from both governments. Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary, acknowledged the lack of recent tariff discussions with China, while Beijing countered claims of ongoing negotiations.

Market analysts highlight investor preference for European stocks over U.S. options as reports from giants like Apple and Microsoft loom. Meanwhile, Europe's financial sector sees movement with both large and niche players making strategic moves, including Deliveroo's 16.3% stock surge after DoorDash's buyout proposal.

(With inputs from agencies.)