The market is currently looking at a flat open today. European equity markets are mostly higher, following weaker trading in Asian markets. The attention is on the French election results, with a surprise win for the left-wing alliance, though no single group secured a working majority. Negotiations to form a coalition government are expected to be difficult. A gridlock scenario is seen as more market-friendly, though it might also lead to further fiscal slippage as parties make difficult tradeoffs to form a government. The new UK Chancellor Reeves will set out planning reforms today to support its aim of investing for growth. Other measures are also anticipated in the coming days to support investment and encourage institutional investors to take a leading role in supporting growth.

Companies Mentioned: Paramount, Grifols, Brookfield Asset Management, Boeing