European markets edge higher on Sino-US trade deal hope

European stocks traded higher Monday morning, as investors digested the latest news surrounding trade discussions between the U.S. and China.

The pan-European Stoxx 600 was 0.5 percent higher with almost every sector in positive territory. Basic resources were the top performers, up by more than 1 percent, with the sector sensitive to news on global trade developments. On Sunday, the Wall Street Journal reported that Beijing was proposing to reduce duties on several American goods, such as auto and farm goods — in an attempt to reach a deal with Washington.

In terms of stocks, Daily Mail and General Trust shares rose to the top of the index, up by more than 4 percent. This followed news that the company is to return £896 million ($1.19 billion) to shareholders.

The British multinational Rotork fell to the bottom of the benchmark, down by more than 6 percent, after the firm presented its 2018 full-year results, with sales falling below expectations.

Brexit

With less than a month to go until the U.K. is expected to leave the European Union, all eyes are on whether a departure – with or without a deal – will materialize by the March 29 deadline.

In the latest surrounding the topic, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has reportedly told colleagues in his cabinet that a delay to June was “very likely,” according to Ireland’s Sunday Independent who cited an unnamed minister.

In the meantime, Prime Minister Theresa May announced a £1.6 billion fund to boost less well-off towns in the U.K. after Brexit.

While no major corporate earnings are set to be published on Monday, investors will be keeping a close eye on the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, which is expected to see automakers comment on the state of the industry, in light of Brexit and possible tariffs.

In economic news, producer price index data for the euro area will come out during morning trade.

source: CNBC