European markets head for lower open amid Iran peace talks uncertainty

NoodlesOrTokens · 2026-03-26T06:26:34+00:00

European stocks are set to open lower as investors respond to conflicting reports on Middle East peace negotiations, particularly between the U.S. and Iran. Market focus will also be on the G7 foreign ministers' meeting and upcoming earnings reports.

NoodlesOrTokens

2026-03-26 06:26:34

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A screen displays a portrait of Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei during the funerals of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) commanders, army commanders and others killed in the early days of the United States and Israeli strikes on Iran, at Enghelab Square in Tehran on March 11, 2026.

Atta Kenare | Afp | Getty Images

LONDON — European stocks are expected to open in negative territory on Thursday as investors weigh mixed messages on the status of Middle East peace talks.

The U.K.'s FTSE 100 index is seen opening 0.2% lower, with Germany’s DAX down 0.6%, France’s CAC 40 down 0.4% and Italy’s FTSE MIB 0.7% lower, according to data from IG.

Global markets have been reacting to conflicting statements from Washington and Tehran over the last 48 hours regarding whether the two sides are holding negotiations. The U.S. says talks over a proposed peace plan have been taking place, while Iran denies any direct interaction with Washington on the matter.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reportedly told state media on Wednesday that officials were reviewing an American proposal to end the war, but said Tehran had no intention of having talks with the U.S.

He added that an exchange of messages between the two countries through mediators “does not mean negotiations with the U.S.,” Reuters reported.

Iran state media reported Wednesday that the Islamic Republic would reject a U.S. ceasefire offer, instead countering with its five-point list that would give Tehran control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Asia markets were mixed in overnight trading, while U.S. stock futures were little changed early Thursday.

European markets will be keeping a close eye on news from the meeting of G7 foreign ministers taking place in France on Thursday and Friday. The wars in Iran and Ukraine will be top of the agenda. Delegations from Saudi Arabia, Brazil, India, South Korea and Ukraine will also be in attendance.

Earnings reports in Europe come from Hennes & Mauritz, Hapag-Lloyd and Next, and data releases include German, French and Italian business and consumer confidence.

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