Markets have taken a positive view of the strong Chinese export data despite the growing trade balance with the US.  Imports fell but Aggregate financing was a trillion yuan ahead of estimates.  European indices finished near highs with a stronger US market helping sentiment.  Autos continued to lead from earlier, up nearly 2% as were Banks. Basic Resources finished 120 bps better with roughly half of the sectors higher.  Healthcare finished down just over a percent.  Of interest, the ECB is not too keen on using tiered deposit rates but may instead consider negative rates to bank via a TLTRO.

Carl Zeiss +6.6% holders viewed gains on a positive 1H and FY outlook.  EBIT margins are seen up 15-17%.

Shortsellers cleaned up on Plus500 -31% today after 1Q revs disappointed.   The firm blamed extremely subdued markets along with customers being profitable as the company makes spread-betting.

Thomas Cook slipped 4.6% on an ominous move by a creditor.  One of its lenders is looking to offload £25M in exposure on a facility due in 2022.  The offer was being made at a 30% discount.

For Monday India reports trade data with Rightmove House Price moves in the UK.