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European stock markets opened the week with slight gains as investors continued to navigate the shifting trade environment.

By 07:05 GMT, Germany’s DAX index inched up 0.1%, France’s CAC 40 advanced 0.2%, and the U.K.’s FTSE 100 increased by 0.2%.

Last week, key European indices posted solid gains, following Wall Street’s lead, buoyed by strong second-quarter earnings and a recent trade deal between the European Union and the United States that diminished the risk of an expensive trade conflict.

Trade Talks Between U.S. and China Take Center Stage

Meanwhile, the picture was less optimistic elsewhere as new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration came into force on Thursday, with some import duties reaching as high as 50% on regional economies.

Moreover, the current tariff ceasefire between the U.S. and China is set to expire on August 12.

Although markets remain hopeful for an extension, uncertainty lingers about the future, given that a trade dispute between the world’s two largest economies could have far-reaching global impacts.

U.S. President Donald Trump commented Monday that he hopes China will “quickly quadruple” its soybean purchases from American farmers, presenting this as a strategy to reduce Beijing’s trade deficit with Washington.

Earnings Reports Thin as Summer Progresses

Corporate earnings releases are light this Monday as the market moves deeper into the slow summer period.

Marshalls (LSE:MSLH) reported a decline in profits for the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year, attributing the drop to weaker margins in its Landscaping Products segment, which offset improvements in Roofing and Building Products.

Danish offshore wind developer Orsted (TG:D2G) announced plans for a rights issue amounting to approximately $9.4 billion, citing challenges in the U.S. offshore wind sector.

“We believe we are approaching the time to look for the next leg higher in the eurozone,” said analysts at JPMorgan in a recent note.

“In the interim, the market needs to work through the stagflationary risks stemming from the U.S., and also the more mixed European earnings delivery.”

Oil Prices Decline Ahead of U.S.-Russia Talks on Ukraine

Oil prices extended last week’s losses on Monday ahead of planned discussions between the U.S. and Russia regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

At 03:05 ET, Brent crude futures dropped 1% to $65.93 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures fell 1.1% to $63.16 per barrel.

Both benchmarks fell more than 4% last week after news emerged that President Trump is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15 in Alaska to negotiate a resolution to the Ukraine war.

Expectations are rising for a possible lifting of sanctions that have restricted Russian oil supplies to the global market.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

U.S. stock futures edged higher on Monday ahead of a packed week of crucial economic reports that may influence the direction of interest rates in the near future. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence continues to capture investor attention, driving the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite to a record closing high last week.

According to media sources, Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA), a leader in AI technology, is set to share a portion of its China sales revenue with the U.S. government. At the same time, C3.ai released a preliminary earnings report that fell short of analyst expectations, adding some caution to the AI sector’s recent surge.

Futures Climb

Ahead of this data-heavy week, futures on major U.S. indexes moved upward. By 03:00 ET, Dow futures were up 108 points (0.2%), S&P 500 futures increased by 12 points (0.2%), and Nasdaq 100 futures gained 37 points (0.2%).

The Nasdaq Composite hit an all-time high in the previous session, with strong gains across other benchmarks as well. Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) led the charge with its stock soaring over 13% last week—the largest weekly jump since 2020—fuelled partly by optimism that the company’s commitment to increased U.S. investment could help it sidestep many of President Donald Trump’s tariffs. Both the S&P 500’s technology and communication services sectors closed at record levels.

Investor hopes that a recent slowdown in U.S. job growth will prompt the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates at its September meeting also lent support to equity markets (details below).

Nvidia to Share China AI Chip Revenues with U.S. Government – Report

The New York Times reported that Nvidia plans to give the U.S. government 15% of the revenue it earns from selling AI technology in China.

The report, citing sources close to the matter, said Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang met with President Trump at the White House last week and agreed to “grant Washington a cut of the money it rakes from its business in the large — and lucrative — Chinese market.” Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:AMD) has reportedly agreed to a similar arrangement.

Following this meeting, the U.S. Commerce Department issued licenses allowing Nvidia to begin sales of its China-specific H20 AI chip, despite the White House’s earlier announcement last month that sales were authorized.

C3.ai Shares Tumble

Shares of C3.ai (NYSE:AI) fell sharply in after-hours trading after the company issued a preliminary earnings update that disappointed investors.

Released after Friday’s market close, the company projected Q1 revenue between $70.2 million and $70.4 million, with an adjusted loss ranging from $57.7 million to $57.9 million.

Analysts had expected revenue of $104 million and an operating loss of $27.3 million. C3.ai also noted it is restructuring its sales and services division.

The Redwood City, California-based firm plans to release its full quarterly results on September 3.

Upcoming Economic Data

Investors will closely watch Tuesday’s release of July’s U.S. consumer price index data.

Additional reports on producer prices for final demand will follow Thursday, with retail sales figures and consumer sentiment surveys scheduled for Friday.

Inflation and labor market conditions remain the Federal Reserve’s twin focus points. Recent weak job growth and downward revisions for May and June suggest a cooling labor market, which could support arguments for rate cuts to boost spending and investment.

However, inflation continues to stay above the Fed’s 2% target, stoking concerns that lowering borrowing costs too soon could reignite price pressures.

Fed’s Bowman Supports Rate Cuts

In this uncertain environment, the Federal Reserve has mostly taken a “wait-and-see” approach on rates, awaiting more clarity on how tariffs affect the economy.

Still, some Fed officials are signaling a growing openness to rate reductions. Two policymakers dissented from the majority at the July meeting, advocating for cuts instead.

Fed Governor Michelle Bowman reaffirmed her position in a Saturday speech, stating that the July jobs report “had underscored her worries around the state of the labor market.” She added, “In effect, she argued, the softness in the jobs picture has outweighed any fears around spiking price gains.”

These remarks align with President Trump’s ongoing calls for swift Fed rate cuts—a stance that has made Fed Chair Jerome Powell a frequent target of the president’s criticism and raised questions about the central bank’s independence.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Wishbone Gold Plc (LSE:WSBN) has announced positive drilling outcomes at its Red Setter Gold Dome Project in Western Australia. The presence of quartz-carbonate veining along with sulphides such as chalcopyrite and pyrite at target depths indicates the likely proximity to a significant mineral deposit. This has prompted plans for further exploration to better define the core of the domal structure. While progress has been slower than initially anticipated, the results are considered very promising for advancing the company’s resource potential.

About Wishbone Gold

Wishbone Gold Plc is a mining company specializing in the exploration and development of gold and other precious metals. Its projects are primarily based in Australia, with a strategic focus on discovering and developing valuable mineral resources.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

S4 Capital Plc (LSE:SFOR) has acknowledged receiving a proposal from MSQ Partners regarding a potential acquisition, whereby S4 Capital would acquire MSQ. The talks are at an early stage with no guarantee that a deal will materialize. If completed, the transaction could strengthen S4 Capital’s service portfolio and broaden its market presence.

Despite this development, S4 Capital faces notable financial volatility and bearish technical signals. Negative earnings weigh on its valuation, though recent corporate events and management’s earnings call guidance offer some optimism for future progress.

About S4 Capital Plc

S4 Capital Plc is a digital marketing and advertising services firm serving a diverse client base ranging from multinational corporations to millennial-focused influencer brands. The company blends marketing expertise with technology to deliver fast, consumer-driven solutions and operates in 33 countries, maintaining a strong foothold in the Americas. It aims to optimize its geographic and service revenue distribution going forward.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Versarien plc (LSE:VRS) has taken additional steps in its ongoing restructuring plan by placing Versarien Graphene Limited into administration and initiating the liquidation of Cambridge Graphene Limited and 2-DTech Limited, aiming to prolong its cash resources. The company is currently negotiating with a strategic investor and is marketing Total Carbide Limited for sale. However, there remains uncertainty regarding the successful completion of these transactions. Leonard Curtis has been appointed to manage an accelerated sale process for the company’s remaining assets. Given the likelihood that asset sales will generate less than the company’s outstanding liabilities, administration and AIM trading suspension appear probable, potentially resulting in no returns for shareholders.

Versarien faces considerable financial strain and adverse technical signals, including high debt levels and negative market momentum. While restructuring and strategic efforts offer some prospects, risks currently overshadow potential gains.

About Versarien

Versarien plc is a materials technology company specializing in advanced engineering solutions, particularly in graphene and related technologies. It operates through several subsidiaries—including Versarien Graphene Limited, Cambridge Graphene Limited, and 2-DTech Limited—and focuses on applying advanced materials to a wide range of industrial sectors.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Genedrive plc (LSE:GDR) announced a substantial rise in total income for fiscal year 2025, reaching around £1 million—twice the amount recorded the previous year. This increase is driven by stronger sales momentum and targeted commercial initiatives. The company expects continued revenue growth in FY26, fueled by international expansion and regulatory advances in key regions including Europe, the Middle East, and the US.

Genedrive’s innovative products are well placed to benefit from upcoming UK healthcare reforms that emphasize prevention and innovation over traditional treatment. The company’s strategic focus on expanding both domestically and internationally aims to boost its market footprint and financial results.

Despite this growth, Genedrive still faces profitability challenges and maintains a solid balance sheet. Technical indicators suggest bearish trends, and valuation remains unattractive due to ongoing losses. Nonetheless, recent corporate developments offer positive signs for improved market positioning and future prospects.

About Genedrive

Genedrive plc is a UK-based company specializing in pharmacogenetic testing, developing and commercializing a cost-effective, rapid, and versatile point-of-care platform. This technology assists clinicians in making informed medication decisions, particularly in emergency care. Its flagship products include the Genedrive® MT-RNR1 ID Kit and Genedrive® CYP2C19 ID Kit, developed alongside NHS partners and recommended by NICE to deliver swift genetic insights that enhance patient care outcomes.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Plus500 (LSE:PLUS) reported robust financial results for the first half of 2025, with notable increases in revenue and EBITDA fueled by its diverse product range and targeted expansion into markets such as Canada, the UAE, and Japan. The company reaffirmed its commitment to shareholder returns, announcing plans to repurchase $200 million in shares during 2025.

The recent acquisition of Mehta Equities in India is set to strengthen Plus500’s international presence and create synergies between the US and Indian futures markets. Enhanced technology platforms and a focus on customer engagement have driven record customer deposit levels and an expanding base of premium clients, positioning the company for sustained growth.

Plus500’s financial strength, combined with strategic corporate initiatives like share buybacks and market diversification, underpin a positive outlook. The stock benefits from attractive valuation metrics and favorable technical signals, though maintaining revenue momentum remains critical for long-term success.

About Plus500

Plus500 is a global fintech company operating proprietary trading platforms across multiple asset classes. It offers a wide range of B2B and B2C futures trading services worldwide and holds multiple regulatory licenses, enabling extensive operations in OTC, futures, and equities markets.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Marshalls plc (LSE:MSLH) reported a 4% rise in revenue for the first half of 2025, driven by its ‘Transform & Grow’ strategy amid challenging market conditions. The company saw strong results in its Building and Roofing Products segments, although profitability in Landscaping Products remained under pressure.

To enhance efficiency, Marshalls is streamlining its manufacturing operations and implementing cost-reduction measures, with substantial savings expected by 2026. The firm remains confident about its growth prospects, supported by government spending on housing and infrastructure projects.

While positive corporate developments and solid financial performance contribute to a favorable stock outlook, bearish technical signals and valuation concerns moderate the overall sentiment.

About Marshalls plc

Marshalls plc is a prominent UK manufacturer specializing in sustainable products for the built environment. The company operates through Landscaping Products, Building Products, and Roofing Products divisions, focusing on delivering high-quality, eco-friendly solutions backed by strong ESG governance and customer-centric strategies.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Kromek Group plc (LSE:KMK) has been awarded a new biosecurity contract by the UK Ministry of Defence, alongside further orders in its CBRN Detection division totaling around £860,000. The UK MoD project focuses on advancing techniques to improve detection of biological threats, complementing Kromek’s ongoing agreements with government agencies in both the UK and the US.

Additionally, Kromek has received international orders for its D5 and D3M detectors, underscoring global demand for its detection technologies. These achievements strengthen Kromek’s reputation as a reliable defense partner and provide greater visibility on future revenues, reflecting positive momentum in the CBRN segment.

While the company benefits from encouraging corporate developments and technical indicators, ongoing financial and profitability challenges temper the overall outlook.

About Kromek Group plc

Kromek Group plc specializes in radiation and bio-detection technologies within the Advanced Imaging and CBRN Detection sectors. Based in County Durham, UK, with manufacturing facilities in the UK and US, Kromek’s solutions support medical, security, and industrial markets by providing critical detection components for disease diagnostics, manufacturing contamination control, and explosives detection in aviation. In its CBRN Detection segment, the company delivers nuclear radiation detection systems for homeland security and develops biosecurity technologies for airborne pathogen detection.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

CleanTech Lithium PLC (LSE:CTL) has increased its ownership in the Laguna Verde project by acquiring additional licences, now controlling 97.63% within the government-designated CEOL polygon. This move is expected to simplify the CEOL permitting process, strengthening the company’s strategic foothold in the lithium sector.

The company also announced plans to raise about £4.25 million through a combination of firm and conditional share placings. Alongside this fundraising, CleanTech is restructuring its existing loan notes and making changes to its Board of Directors. These initiatives aim to secure financial stability and advance progress on the Laguna Verde project, with a focus on attracting strategic partners and moving toward a Final Investment Decision.

About CleanTech Lithium PLC

CleanTech Lithium PLC specializes in exploring and developing sustainable lithium resources in Chile. The company’s work supports the growing demand for lithium essential to electric vehicles and battery storage systems, positioning it as a key player in the renewable energy transition.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.