Financial Services Roundup: European Markets Open Higher, HSBC and St. James's Place Lead Gains

🤖 AI Summary

European stock markets opened higher, following gains in Asian and US markets. Positive earnings reports from HSBC and St James’s Place, driving gains of 5.5% and 4.5% respectively, contributed to a 0.8% rise in the FTSE 100 index.

📊 Comment: Strong performance in financial stocks contributed to improved investor sentiment across European markets.