Major stock markets in the Gulf were mixed in early trade on Thursday, as investors weighed the potential impact of U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs on global economic growth.

Futures data from IG suggests regional markets will open higher, with London's FTSE 100 expected to open 34 points higher at 8,902, Germany's DAX up 60 points at 24,580 and France's CAC 40 up 19 points at 7,897. Italy's FTSE MIB is seen opening 60 points higher at 40,934.

US stocks closed little changed despite Trump's tough tariff talk. Copper climbs to record high after Trump threatens to slap 50% levy on imports.

By Elizabeth Howcroft PARIS (Reuters) -European stocks rose on Wednesday as traders seemed untroubled by U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement that he would impose a 50% tariff on imported copper and soon introduce levies of up to 200% for pharmaceuticals.

U.S. President Donald Trump's latest tariff delay provided some hope to major trade partners Japan, South Korea and the European Union that deals to ease duties could still be reached, while bewildering some smaller exporters such as South Africa and leaving companies with no clarity on the path forward.

U.S. stock futures are higher as investors eye President Donald Trump's next tariff move and minutes from the last Federal Reserve policy meeting.

President Trump this week has been firing off letters to global leaders that threaten new, high tariff rates and also announcing them via social media. Here's what has happened so far.

Market movements were relatively muted, signaling investors think Trump’s new tariffs are more negotiating tactics than firm policy. It’s a noticeable change from early April, when Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs sent stocks plummeting.