European markets opened flat to slightly lower on May 21, 2025, as investors awaited the release of UK inflation data. The market sentiment was cautious with the hot UK inflation figures expected to weigh on the indices. Key European stocks showed mixed performances, with Infineon rising by 1.7%, Lloyds Banking Group up 0.4%, and Barclays increasing slightly by 0.1%. In contrast, Marks & Spencer declined by 3.2%, Julius Baer fell 4.3%, and JD Sports dropped sharply by 10%. The broader European market was influenced by concerns over UK inflation and fiscal conditions in the United States, contributing to the mixed trading environment.