LIVE MARKETS-Europe before the bell: moving on up

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EUROPE BEFORE THE BELL: MOVING ON UP

Futures indicate that at an index level it could be a slightly calmer day, but there should be enough drama at the open with eyes on oil giants Shell and BP.

Shell SHEL.L denied that it was in talks to buy BP BP.L after the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that the oil major was in early discussions over a takeover of its British rival.

The companies' share price reaction at the open will give a sense of what the market thinks is going on.

More broadly Euro Stoxx 50 futures are up 0.27% STXEc1 as the gentle risk on tone continues. FTSE futures are lagging down 0.15%. FFIc1 There isn't too much on the macro data docket for today.

There were a few bits of corporate news also from Wednesday that could still shape things on Thursday. Stellantis STLAM.MI has begun reviewing its long-term strategic plan, new Chief Executive Antonio Filosa told staff.

While global shipping groups, including Maersk MAERSKb.CO, are looking to Brazil's courts to overturn competition rules that bar them from participating in the first round of bidding on a major new container terminal at Latin America's largest port.

(Alun John)

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