Europe stocks record another negative start as U.S. data drags down sentiment

European stocks opened lower on Friday with the pan-European Stoxx 600 index down 0.32%. The index has experienced losses in four consecutive sessions this week, dropping nearly 2.5% since last week’s record high. Weaker-than-expected data from the US, including manufacturing surveys and private sector payrolls, has increased speculation of a 50 basis point cut by the Federal Reserve at its upcoming meeting. Investors are also keeping an eye on news of inspections for Rolls-Royce engines on Airbus A350-1000 aircraft following an incident on a Cathay Pacific flight. Next week, economic data and the European Central Bank’s monetary policy meeting will be in focus.