European equities largely gained ground on Wednesday amid growing anticipation over developments in the U.S.-EU trade negotiations.

Reports from the Financial Times suggest that the European Union and the United States are nearing a trade agreement, which would impose tariffs higher than those applied to the U.K.

Among major indices, the German DAX rose 1.2%, while France’s CAC 40 increased by 1.3%. The U.K.’s FTSE 100 also advanced modestly, up 0.2%.

In corporate updates, Galliford Try Holdings (LSE:GFRD) rallied following its projection that full-year 2025 revenue and adjusted pre-tax earnings will slightly surpass market expectations.

Energy services company Hunting Plc (LSE:HTG) surged after releasing robust half-year figures and announcing a $40 million share buyback initiative.

EssilorLuxottica (EU:EL) gained significantly after Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) acquired a minority stake in the global eyewear giant.

German manufacturer Renk (TG:R3NK) also climbed higher amid rumors it is exploring options for its civilian industrial business unit.

Conversely, shares of British advertising firm WPP (LSE:WPP) declined sharply after the company lowered its earnings outlook for both the first half and full fiscal year 2025.

Close Brothers (LSE:CBG) shares fell following the announcement of plans to downsize its premium finance division to reduce costs and sharpen its focus on business services.

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