European Markets Open Lower Amid Tariff Concerns and Economic Data

Investors across Europe started the week cautiously, with major indexes opening lower. The focus remains on the impending United States tariffs, set to take effect on April 2, and a slew of economic data releases.

Germany's retail sales showed a promising increase of 4.9% in real terms for February, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the market's downturn.

Today's economic calendar is packed, with the United Kingdom's mortgage approvals, Italy's consumer price index figures, and the Bank of England's Quarterly Bulletin eagerly awaited by market participants.

Market Performance at a Glance

The DAX led the declines, dropping by 0.97% at the open, closely followed by the CAC 40, which fell by 1%. The FTSE 100 and Euro Stoxx 50 also saw losses, decreasing by 0.29% and 0.80%, respectively.

In currency markets, the euro and pound sterling showed slight gains against the dollar, trading at 1.08406 and 1.29608, respectively, by 8:54 am CET.

Stay tuned for more updates as the day unfolds...