European equities opened higher on 16 April 2026, with Stoxx 600 +0.2%, CAC 40 +0.1%, FTSE 100 +0.2%, DAX -0.1%.
Gains were driven by optimism over renewed US‑Iran peace talks and a potential cease‑fire despite ongoing Middle‑East energy tensions.
Oil prices hovered just below $100 per barrel as the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed, pressuring global supplies.
US officials JD Vance and Donald Trump highlighted upcoming diplomatic talks with Iran and Israel‑Lebanon, influencing market sentiment.