European stock index futures slumped more than 4pc on Monday as the coronavirus pandemic raged through much of Europe, with dramatic monetary easing by global central banks failing to reassure investors about its growing economic damage. Euro Stoxx 50 futures fell 5.4pc to their lowest since 2012, while German DAX futures shed 5.6pc. French and Spanish futures slumped 6pc and 5.2pc, respectively, as the two countries joined Italy in enforcing a national lockdown. S&P 500 futures tumbled 4.77pc to their daily down limit shortly after resuming trading on Sunday night. All eyes will now be on a Group of Seven teleconference at 14:00 GMT to discuss the health crisis.

Source: Irish Independent March 16, 2020 07:52 UTC