The FTSE 100 is as flat as a pancake, following a modest 0.1% rise last Friday. Meanwhile, Asian markets are basking in the glow of positive economic data from China. The Shanghai Composite climbed 0.7%, the Hang Seng Index edged up 0.2%. This upbeat mood is thanks to China's manufacturing sector, which is revving up with a purchasing managers' index of 51.5 in November, its fastest pace since June.

Across the pond, US markets ended last week on a high note. The Dow Jones rose 0.4%, the S&P 500 gained 0.6%, and the Nasdaq Composite jumped 0.8%. All eyes are now on the US jobs market, with the nonfarm payrolls report due this Friday.

In Europe, France is the center of attention, and not in a good way. The dissolution of the French National Assembly on June 9 has left the country in political limbo. Michel Barnier's government is teetering on the brink, possibly facing collapse any day now. This uncertainty is making financial markets jittery, as they dislike instability, which could lead to regional crises. Despite this, S&P has kept France's financial strength rating at “AA-” with a “stable” outlook, which is a small victory in these turbulent times.

UK house prices are on the rise, up 3.7% year-on-year in November, marking the fastest increase in two years.

In corporate news, Metals Exploration is eyeing a takeover of Condor Gold, with talks well underway. Condor has also received an offer from Calibre Mining, but Calibre has decided not to pursue it. HSBC Holdings is gearing up to find a new chair, as Mark Tucker plans to step down in 2026. International Public Partnerships reported strong performance and confirmed its 2024 dividend target, while Gamma Communications is planning a move to the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is preparing to unveil a "plan for change," focusing on public sector reform and early education. The UK government is also set to prioritize investment in defense firms, aiming to boost jobs and growth in the sector.

Things to read today: