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Important information: The value of investments can go down as well as up so you may get back less than you invest. Investors should note that the views expressed may no longer be current and may have already been acted upon. This is a third-party news feed and may not reflect Fidelity’s views.

Europe open: Shares rise ahead of US data; H&M plunges on weak sales

(Sharecast News) - European shares opened slightly higher on Thursday as investors awaited a key US inflation report while shares in Swedish fashion chain H&M slumped on weaker-than-expected earnings. The pan-regional Stoxx 600 index was up 0.02% in early deals. France's CAC 40 was up 0.13% as voters prepared to go to the polls for the first round of voting in the country's national election where far-right parties were expected to put up a strong challenge.

Eyes are focused on the US personal consumption expenditures price index - the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge - on Friday, with traders hoping easing price pressures will allow room for a rate cut this summer.

In equity news, H&M plunged by 14% after unstable weather in large markets at start of June had a negative impact on sales.

Watches of Switzerland surged after holding annual guidance despite weaker profits driven by lower UK sales of luxury timepieces.

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com

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Important information: This information is not a personal recommendation for any particular investment. If you are unsure about the suitability of an investment you should speak to one of Fidelity’s advisers or an authorised financial adviser of your choice. When you are thinking about investing in shares, it’s generally a good idea to consider holding them alongside other investments in a diversified portfolio of assets. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns.

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