European markets head for mostly higher open, brushing off new U.S.-China trade spat

Market Overview - European stocks are expected to open mostly higher, with the U.K.'s FTSE index seen opening just below the flatline, Germany's DAX up 0.3%, France's CAC 40 up 0.26%, and Italy's FTSE MIB up 0.54% [1] - The positive start follows a negative close for regional bourses last week due to U.S. President Trump's threats of new tariffs against China in response to China's export controls on rare earth minerals [2] Trade Relations - Trump suggested in a social media post that he might not follow through on his tariff threats, stating that trade relations with China "will all be fine" [3] - China responded by asserting that it is "not afraid of" a trade war and accused the U.S. of a "double standard" regarding Trump's promise of additional 100% tariffs on Chinese imports [3] Market Reactions - Asia-Pacific markets fell overnight amid concerns over renewed trade tensions, while U.S. stock futures rose, rebounding from a previous sell-off after Trump's reassurances [4] - Investors are anticipating financial reports from companies such as ASML, LVMH, and Nestle as the third quarter earnings season begins [4] Upcoming Events - Investors will be monitoring news from the IMF and World Bank annual meeting in Washington this week [5]