European Stocks Poised to Open Lower as Investors Weigh Inflation Risks, Await U.S. Data

European equities are set to open lower on Thursday, September 24, 2026, as investors assess persistent inflation concerns and await key U.S. economic data expected later this week for signals on the Federal Reserve's interest rate path. The cautious sentiment follows recent volatility tied to shifting rate expectations. Market participants are focused on upcoming U.S. releases, including inflation and labor figures, which could influence the Fed's next policy decision. Trading is likely to remain subdued ahead of the data, with investors reluctant to take large positions amid uncertainty over the central bank's trajectory.