Markets Brace for ECB's Next Move Amid Inflation Concerns

European markets anticipate the ECB's upcoming decision on interest rates, driven by inflation data reports. Euro zone inflation remains below targets, while concerns grow over the euro's value against the dollar. Meanwhile, Anthropic's AI developments stir fears of industry disruptions, with Google's earnings report pending.

European markets are poised for the European Central Bank's (ECB) upcoming rate decision, closely tied to new inflation data. Preliminary figures suggest consumer prices have eased to a 1.7% increase, still below the ECB's 2% target, offering room for the central bank to maintain current rates.

German inflation data showed a slight uptick, contrasting with France's lower-than-expected figures, contributing to uncertainties about the euro's future value against the dollar. The euro's fluctuations add pressure, influenced by the policies of U.S. President Donald Trump, keeping currency markets on edge.

Attention is also on the tech sector, where AI developments from Anthropic are causing market ripples, signaling potential industry disruptions. Europe's stock futures indicate steadiness, while Google's anticipated earnings report later in the day could provide insight into tech spending trends and AI capacity.

(With inputs from agencies.)