Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said national elections could be held as early as April — roughly six months ahead of schedule — setting up a politically charged 2027 that will also see votes in France and Poland.
Energy markets took a softer tone as more tankers transited the Strait of Hormuz following progress in peace talks, extending a recent drop in crude prices. Brent crude fell about 2% to near $75 a barrel.
Economic indicators offered signs of stabilization in Europe. Flash euro‑area PMIs for June showed private‑sector contraction easing more than expected, with the composite reading rising to 49.5 from 48.5 in May — above the 49.2 consensus and suggesting business activity may be turning a corner. Germany’s business outlook also improved: the Ifo expectations index edged up to 84.1 from 83.9.
Equity markets were cautious after yesterday’s correction as investors awaited Micron Technology’s earnings for clues on the health of the AI‑led cycle. European shares traded largely flat; in Asia, mainland Chinese indexes added roughly 0.5% while Japan slipped about 0.5%. US futures pointed to a stable open.