Market Data 
Investing.com — European stock markets started the week on a positive note, with most major indices posting gains amid cautious investor sentiment.
At 3:05 ET (8:05 GMT) saw a modest rise of 0.3%, while 40 increased by 0.8%.
With no major corporate earnings or economic data releases scheduled in Europe for Monday, traders are turning their attention to broader global developments.
Middle East instability following Syrian leadership overthrow
Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have added a layer of uncertainty following the ousting of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces over the weekend.
The abrupt end to Assad’s regime has prompted cautious reactions from Western leaders, who fear the potential consequences of a power vacuum in the region.
The situation is likely to remain a focal point for investors, who are assessing its implications for global stability and markets.
UK Business confidence drops to lowest level in nearly two years
Adding to the cautious mood in Europe, a new report has revealed that business confidence in the UK has plummeted to its lowest point since January 2023.
As per data released by business advisory firm BDO, the Optimism Index, a key measure of business sentiment, fell sharply by 5.81 points to 93.49 in November.
This decline also marks the steepest monthly drop since August 2021, underlining the mounting challenges faced by businesses.
The report pointed to rising operational costs, shrinking order volumes, and persistent difficulties in the labor market as the primary factors behind the slump.
These pressures are compounding the difficulties already facing UK firms, which are grappling with an uncertain economic landscape.
As concerns about inflation and sluggish economic growth linger, the steep decline in optimism shows the broader struggles of businesses navigating an increasingly challenging environment.
Oil prices edge higher amid geopolitical tensions
Oil prices inched up on Monday, driven by a rising geopolitical risk premium following the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces.
While this development adds to concerns over instability in the Middle East, ongoing tensions between Israel and Lebanon have also kept some upward pressure on prices.
By 3:05 ET, futures (WTI) rose 1.1% to $67.91 per barrel, while rose by 0.9%, trading at $71.75 per barrel.
