- Sanctions against some Russian firms expected
- Healthcare stocks lead gains
- Siemens moves to block GE bid for Alstom power unit
- Euro moves higher, towards 1.3870

FTSE-100: 0.25%
Dax-30: 0.28%
Cac-40: 0.19%
FTSE Mibtel 30: 0.38%
Ibex 35: 0.34%
Stoxx 600: 0.24%

European stocks began the week with slight gains on the heels of a raft of news on the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) front.

Nevertheless, traders were cautious, given the risk that new sanctions against Russia might be announced in due course. As well, of course, the possibility existed of reciprocal actions from Russia.

White House officials had indicated that the US and European governments were planning to step up their sanctions against Russia this week. The measures were said to target those in Russian President Vladimir Putin's inner circle and their business interests.

Healthcare stocks lead gains

From a sector standpoint, and within the DJ Stoxx 600, the largest gains were being seen in the following industry groups: Healthcare (1.84%), Chemicals (1.21%) and Food&Beverage (0.45%).

Back on the corporate front, US drugs giant Pfizer this morning confirmed a previous $99bn proposal to 'merge' with UK peer AstraZeneca. The American firm also indicated that it was still interested in a possible tie-up.

Over the weekend German industrial conglomerate Siemens moved to block General Electric's (GE) attempt to make away with French rival Alstom's power unit.

French authorities postponed a meeting with GE Chief Executive Jeffery Immelt while the rival proposals are evaluated.

Euro/dollar moves clearly higher

The euro/dollar was clearly higher overnight, up by 0.21% to 1.3870.

Front-month Brent crude futures were moving lower by 0.30% to the $109.92/barrel mark on the ICE.

AB

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