FTSE 100 : London soars, trailing Asia and New York

The global stock markets are showing positive momentum, with strong performances in technology stocks and encouraging corporate results. The focus remains on upcoming US labor data and potential Federal Reserve actions regarding interest rates. Investors are also keeping an eye on France.

The FTSE 100 is enjoying a 0.5% lift, buoyed by upbeat trading sessions in Asia and New York. Over in Asia, the Nikkei 225 surged by 2%, thanks to a rally in semiconductor stocks, while the Hang Seng climbed 1%.

All eyes are on the US labor market, with the JOLTS report expected to reveal 7.52 million job openings. This sets the stage for Friday's nonfarm payrolls report. Meanwhile, Federal Reserve officials are signaling that the US is on course to hit its 2% inflation target, hinting at a possible rate cut in December. Fed Governor Christopher Waller and New York Fed President John Williams have expressed optimism about inflation trends.

In Paris, the atmosphere is tense as the Barnier government faces a potential fall due to a motion of censure. While not a foregone conclusion, the situation looks grim unless last-minute negotiations succeed before the votes on Wednesday or Thursday. Both the left and far right have tabled motions of censure.

On the corporate front, Greencore's shares jumped 12%, and Victrex's shares soared 14% after reporting positive annual results.

Things to read today:

• The coming clash between Trump and Wall Street (Financial Times).
• The return of Enron (FY Alphaville).
• The end of Democratic illusions (The Atlantic).
• Porch Pirates Steal So Many Packages That Now You Can Get Insurance (Wall Street Journal).