European markets set for mixed open as traders keep an eye on tariffs, U.S. political deadlock

Group 1 - European stocks are expected to open in mixed territory, with the U.K.'s FTSE and France's CAC 40 indexes anticipated to open lower, while Germany's DAX is expected to rise by 0.4% and Italy's FTSE MIB by 0.13% [2] - U.S. President Trump announced a 10% tariff on imported timber and lumber, along with a 25% duty on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and upholstered furniture, citing threats to the U.S. economy and national security [3] - A potential federal government shutdown is being closely monitored, with concerns that it could impact U.S. credit ratings, which were previously downgraded by Moody's in May [4][5] Group 2 - U.S. stock futures remained stable as investors aimed to conclude a strong September, while Asia-Pacific markets showed mixed results due to a sixth consecutive month of contraction in Chinese manufacturing activity [6]