A quiet day of trading due to the US holiday has still seen struggling European indices make headway, says Chris Beauchamp, Chief Market Analyst at online trading platform IG.

European markets edge higher in light trading

It is getting to the point where European markets only make gains when the US is out of the picture. Europeans always seem to take over some of America’s positive outlook on life on days like today, with indices moving modestly higher. The Dax is higher, and even the beleaguered CAC40 is rebounding slightly. But the political crisis in France has not gone away, and threatens to unleash fresh volatility on global markets.

FTSE 100 higher but Aviva sinks

The prospect of more M&A activity in the insurance sector has failed to spark a substantial rally for the FTSE 100, but in the short-term the upside for the index looks limited given the near-300 point gain in two weeks. Aviva’s bid for Direct Line might signal the beginning of a more activist phase for undervalued UK stocks, helped along by the renewed weakness in sterling versus the dollar.

This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients.

Recommended Content


Recommended Content

Editors’ Picks

AUD/USD Price Forecast: Revisits monthly high around 0.6390

AUD/USD Price Forecast: Revisits monthly high around 0.6390 Premium

AUD/USD advances to near 0.6390 despite the escalating trade war between the US and China. US President Trump announced a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs for all of his trading partners, except China. Trump’s tariff agenda has kept the US Dollar on the backfoot.

AUD/USD News
EUR/USD remains offered and below 1.1300

EUR/USD remains offered and below 1.1300

EUR/USD is feeling the squeeze, revisiting the area around 1.1280 as the US Dollar gains extra momentum on Tuesday. Mixed domestic data from Industrial Production and Economic Sentiment haven't done the Euro any favours either.

EUR/USD News
Gold embarks on a consolidative move around $3,200

Gold embarks on a consolidative move around $3,200

Gold is holding its own on Tuesday, trading just above $3,200 per troy ounce as it bounces back from earlier losses. While a more upbeat risk sentiment is bolstering the rebound, lingering concerns over a deepening global trade rift have prevented XAU/USD from rallying too aggressively.

Gold News
XRP, Dogecoin and Mantra traders punished for bullish bets, will altcoins recover? 

XRP, Dogecoin and Mantra traders punished for bullish bets, will altcoins recover? 

Altcoins are recovering on Tuesday as the dust settles on US President Donald Trump’s tariff announcements last week. The President has repeatedly changed his mind on several tariff-related concerns, ushering volatility in Bitcoin and altcoin prices. 

Read more
Is a recession looming?

Is a recession looming?

Wall Street skyrockets after Trump announces tariff delay. But gains remain limited as Trade War with China continues. Recession odds have eased, but investors remain fearful. The worst may not be over, deeper market wounds still possible.

Read more
The Best brokers to trade EUR/USD

The Best brokers to trade EUR/USD

SPONSORED Discover the top brokers for trading EUR/USD in 2025. Our list features brokers with competitive spreads, fast execution, and powerful platforms. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, find the right partner to navigate the dynamic Forex market.

Read More

Majors

Cryptocurrencies

Signatures

Best Brokers of 2025