European markets set for mixed open as traders track Middle East turmoil

European markets set for mixed open as traders track Middle East turmoil


Traders work at the New York Stock Exchange on March 2, 2026.

NYSE

LONDON — European stocks are expected to open in mixed territory on Wednesday as markets continue to track the war in the Middle East.

The U.K.’s FTSE index is seen opening 0.3% higher, Germany’s DAX and France’s CAC 40 flat and Italy’s FTSE MIB slightly lower, according to data from IG.

Regional stocks had traded sharply lower on Tuesday as the conflict continued to weigh on global investor sentiment. Banking, insurance, travel and leisure and utilities stocks led losses.

The more mixed open expected in Europe on Wednesday comes as U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran continued overnight with Western countries trying to organize evacuation flights for their citizens in the region.

Oil prices eased Tuesday in extended trading, however, after President Donald Trump said the U.S. would provide insurance to tankers in the Persian Gulf to get maritime traffic moving through the Strait of Hormuz. He also said the Navy will escort tankers in the region, if necessary.

In Asia-Pacific markets overnight, South Korea’s Kospi plunged over 12% before paring some losses, while U.S. stock futures fell Tuesday night after a volatile session for U.S. equities.

Earnings updates come from Adidas, Dassault Aviation, Continental, Uniper and Moncler. Data releases include the latest EU unemployment figures.



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