LIVE MARKETS-Europe before the bell: futures rise, UK dealmaking eyed

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EUROPE BEFORE THE BELL: FUTURES RISE, UK DEALMAKING EYED

European shares were set for a higher start on Wednesday as the euro steadied below its latest peak against the dollar, with investors bracing for a flurry of trade deals ahead of a July 9 deadline, when a pause on U.S. reciprocal tariffs is set to expire.

President Donald Trump said he could reach a deal with India, though he cast doubt on an accord with Japan, while reports have indicated the EU is willing to accept a deal that includes a 10% tariff on many of its exports to the U.S.

EuroSTOXX50, DAX and FTSE futures were up 0.3-0.4%. S&P 500 contracts also edged higher after the Senate's passage of Trump's tax package, which now heads to the House of Representatives.

Dealmaking livened up corporate news in Europe.

Spectris SXS.L accepted an improved takeover offer from private equity firm KKR KKR.N that values the British scientific instruments maker at over $6.4 billion.

Meanwhile, Santander SAN.MC agreed to buy Sabadell's SABE.MC UK unit TSB for an initial $3.6 billion in an all-cash deal, subject to approval by shareholders of its smaller Spanish rival.

Eyes were also on Greggs GRG.L after the British baker and fast food chain warned its annual operating profit could be modestly below last year's levels, as unusually high temperatures discouraged customers from eating out.

(Danilo Masoni)

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