Euro Stoxx 50 futures slip 0.2%; DAX futures ease 0.3%

Euro Stoxx 50 futures slip 0.2%; DAX futures ease 0.3%

Euro Stoxx 50 and DAX Futures Decline Amid Tariff Uncertainty

European stock index futures fell on February 22, 2026, as renewed U.S. tariff threats and geopolitical tensions weighed on investor sentiment. The Euro Stoxx 50 index futures declined 0.2%, while German DAX futures eased 0.3%, reflecting broader market caution. The UK's FTSE 100 futures also dipped 0.2%, aligning with a regional trend of declining equity benchmarks.

The selloff followed U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of potential tariffs on goods from eight European countries—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland—starting February 1, escalating to 25% by June 1. These measures, tied to Trump's push for European support in acquiring Greenland, have sparked fears of retaliatory action. According to reports, the EU is reportedly considering activating EUR 93 billion in pre-approved retaliatory tariffs from 2025, while France and Germany face particular exposure due to their trade volumes.

Market reactions extended beyond equities. Brent crude oil fell 0.73% to $63.66 per barrel, and the U.S. Dollar Index declined 0.23%. Meanwhile, gold prices surged to a record $4,689.39 per ounce, reflecting demand for safe-haven assets amid uncertainty. Analysts at Deutsche Bank noted that while the immediate shock to markets is evident, the long-term impact may depend on diplomatic efforts and the EU's coordinated response.

The European Central Bank and EU leaders are set to convene an emergency summit to address the crisis, with Germany, France, and the UK leading discussions on joint defense and trade strategies. Investors remain wary of further volatility, particularly as Trump's tariff policies face legal challenges following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that invalidated prior emergency tariff measures under the IEEPA.

For now, European markets continue to price in the risk of prolonged trade tensions, with equity benchmarks likely to remain sensitive to developments in Washington and Brussels.

Bitget, February 5, 2026: Bitget, February 5, 2026
The Guardian, January 19, 2026: The Guardian, January 19, 2026
Independent Economics, February 2026: Independent Economics, February 2026