UK GDP growth accelerates to its fastest pace in a year, lifting regional markets amid broader trade deal hopes.
European equities held steady as investors focused on US-China trade negotiations. The UK’s FTSE 100 rose 0.07% after the economy grew at its strongest quarterly rate in a year, easing recession fears.
Germany’s DAX led gains, climbing 1.04%, while France’s CAC 40 added 0.46%. The moves followed a mixed session in Asia, where trade tensions remained a key driver. Analysts noted the UK’s 0.6% GDP growth in Q2 outpaced expectations, though political uncertainty persisted.
Markets showed muted reaction to calls for UK Prime Minister Starmer’s resignation, prioritizing macroeconomic signals over domestic turmoil.