European stocks started with gains after mixed but still not worrying U.S. data helped by a climbing DAX which could close positively for the eighth time in a row today fuelled by optimism that a weaker euro will help German exporters. Investors continue to expect further stimulus from the ECB. Markets are awaiting important U.S. data on durable goods orders, initial jobless claims, personal income and spending, reports on new and pending home sales and data on consumer sentiment.

The FTSE 100 index is currently trading with a plus of +0.28% at 6,749.73 points, Germany's DAX 30 continued to rally trading +0.44% at 9,904.59 points and France's CAC 40 trading +0.16% currently quoted at 4,389.13 points.