European Stocks Edge Higher as Asia Ends Mixed, Global Growth Outlook Holds Above 3%

Trading across Europe began on a positive note with the DAX, CAC 40, and FTSE 100 rising between 0.2% and 0.5%, buoyed by steady corporate updates and easing bond yields. Asian markets closed mixed as Japan’s Nikkei dipped 0.4% on tech profit-taking, while South Korea’s KOSPI gained modestly. Analysts pointed to improving liquidity conditions and cooling inflation as catalysts for risk appetite. Economists reaffirmed that 2025 global GDP expansion remains projected above 3%, citing resilience in services and export-led sectors despite geopolitical caution.