European stock markets opened higher on Wednesday, with investors welcoming the latest monetary policy comments ahead of a salvo of indicators.

In Paris, the CAC 40 gained 0.53% to 7,578.31 points around 07:05 GMT. In Frankfurt, the Dax gained 0.4%, compared with 0.6% for the FTSE in London.

The pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 index gained 0.4%, the EuroStoxx 50 0.57% and the Stoxx 600 0.39%.

Futures on New York indices suggest a directionless opening for Wall Street, with the Dow Jones , Standard & Poor's 500 and Nasdaq showing no marked movement.

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said in Sintra on Tuesday that a "substantial" move towards a better balance in the labor market had taken place, pulling US yields back.

"Jerome Powell's comments suggest that the Fed could cut rates next September", summarized John Plassard, director at Mirabaud.

The final PMI services and composite indicators for June are expected from 07:50 GMT, and should confirm the clear slowdown in activity growth in the euro zone.

Investors will also be keeping a close eye on political developments in France, as a broad Republican front attempts to prevent the Rassemblement National from securing an absolute majority in Sunday's second round of legislative elections.

Trading volumes are expected to be low, as some American operators will be absent on the eve of the July 4th national holiday.

Among stocks, Eurofins gained 2.83% following its response to the Muddy Waters allegations. (Written by Corentin Chappron, edited by Blandine Hénault)