FX.co ★ European Markets Head for Lower Open

European equity markets were poised for a weaker start on Friday, continuing the downward trend from the previous session due to ongoing global economic and trade uncertainties. Earlier this week, the U.S. Federal Reserve reduced its economic growth projections and increased its inflation forecast, heightening concerns about potential stagflation. In contrast, the Bank of England and Sweden’s Riksbank maintained their current monetary policies, while the Swiss National Bank unexpectedly reduced its benchmark interest rate. Policymakers at the European Central Bank also indicated a likelihood of rate cuts this year, pointing to increasing risks from global trade tensions. Attention will now turn to the Eurozone's January current account data and March consumer confidence figures. In pre-market trading, futures for the Euro Stoxx 50 and Stoxx 600 had declined by approximately 0.5%.