European indices edge higher in early trading despite falling oil prices and the political turmoil in Greece where the anti-austerity party Syriza could come to power after the elections of January 25^th. Growing concerns over a potential Greek exit from the euro zone weighs but the prospect of for additional easing measures by the ECB supports the markets.

German Retail Sales rose unexpectedly +1.0% in November compared to a forecast of +0.2% and a revised previous reading of +2.1% in October. The Unemployment Rate in Germany fell to 6.5%, a record low, beating forecast of 6.6%. Last month's reading was 6.6%.

All eyes are now on the Eurozone's Harmonized CPI that will show consumer prices declined for the first time in more than five years according to predictions. According to analyst Eurozone's Unemployment Rate will stay unchanged at 11.5%.

The minutes from December's Federal Reserve policy meeting are due later in the day at 19:00 GMT. The minutes may give further indication on the FED's 'patient' approach on rising benchmark interest rates for the first time since 2006.

The FTSE 100 index is currently trading +0.75% quoted at 6,414.23 points, Germany's DAX 30 added +0.62% trading at 9,528.59. France's CAC 40 rose by +0.89%, currently trading at 4,119.99 points.