European indices set for mild gains amid easing risk-off sentiment

European equity futures point to a cautiously optimistic open on Wednesday, with DAX futures up 0.2% and FTSE 100 futures gaining 0.15%, as risk aversion subsides following Tuesday's sharp selloff. The improved sentiment is supporting risk-sensitive currencies, with EUR/USD stabilizing near 1.1180 and GBP/USD holding above 1.3200. Asian markets provided a positive lead, with the Nikkei 225 closing up 0.5% despite ongoing yen strength. Market participants are digesting mixed economic signals, with German business confidence data due later potentially influencing euro crosses. The VIX volatility index has retreated to 15.2 from Tuesday's spike above 17, suggesting calmer market conditions. Currency traders are positioning ahead of Thursday's ECB meeting minutes and Friday's US PCE inflation data, which could provide fresh directional impulses for major forex pairs.