European stocks defy geopolitical headwinds as markets open higher. The Stoxx 600 pared early losses to trade up 0.45%, with the FTSE 100 gaining 0.8% and Germany's DAX rising 0.16%. France's Cac 40 and Italy's FTSE Mib also advanced despite escalating Iran tensions and weakening economic sentiment. Official data showed deterioration in the European Commission's Economic Sentiment Indicator and Employment Expectations Indicator for March, while consumer confidence plummeted across the EU and euro area. In corporate news, Danish renewables firm Orsted surged 7.5% after Bank of America upgraded the stock to buy from neutral, citing improved risk-reward dynamics following Trump administration headwinds. Geopolitical risks remain elevated as the Iran conflict intensifies, with Trump suggesting the U.S.
