European markets head for higher open as traders track Greenland, Iran news

• UK's index expected to open 0.6% higher, with Germany up 0.18%, France up 0.2%, and Italy up 0.34%
• High-stakes meeting between U.S., Denmark, and Greenland officials concluded Wednesday with no agreement on the Arctic territory's ownership, despite Trump's threats to seize it by force for national security
• Trump softened tone on Iran after threatening military action, saying he was assured executions of protestors had stopped; Thursday's agenda includes UK GDP data and European inflation figures

Summary

European markets are poised for a modestly higher open Thursday, with the U.K.'s FTSE 100 expected to gain 0.6%, Germany's DAX up 0.18%, France's CAC 40 up 0.2%, and Italy's index up 0.34%, according to IG data.

Geopolitical Developments:

Investors are closely monitoring two key geopolitical situations. First, a high-stakes White House meeting Wednesday between U.S., Danish, and Greenland officials ended without resolution on the Arctic island's ownership. President Donald Trump has called Greenland—a semi-autonomous Danish territory—critical for national security and previously threatened forcible acquisition. Danish officials confirmed no agreement was reached, though discussions will continue.

Second, tensions with Iran captured market attention after Trump threatened military action if the country executed protesters arrested during a violent crackdown. However, Trump moderated his stance Wednesday evening, stating he had been assured executions had ceased and would "watch and see" regarding potential military intervention. The situation impacted operations, with temporary closures affecting most flights.

Market Catalysts:

Thursday's trading session will feature corporate earnings releases and significant economic data. Key releases include U.K. GDP figures for November, Spanish and French inflation data, and EU trade balance statistics. These indicators will provide insights into European economic health amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.

The positive market sentiment suggests investors are cautiously optimistic despite heightened geopolitical risks, with diplomatic channels remaining open on both the Greenland and Iran situations. Traders will balance these developments against incoming economic data throughout the session.