European markets set to open lower amid Iran unrest and Powell investigation

European stocks are expected to open lower as investors weigh unrest in Iran and a Department of Justice investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.

European markets are expected to start the trading week lower as investors weigh geopolitical developments in Iran and a legal inquiry involving the U.S. central bank chair. The U.K.'s FTSE and Germany's DAX were seen opening around 0.13% lower, France's CAC 40 flat and Italy's FTSE MIB down about 0.26%, according to IG. Market attention is on reports of widespread protests in Iran and on reports that the U.S. president is reviewing options this week. U.S. stock futures fell after news that the Department of Justice opened a criminal investigation related to Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's Senate testimony. Known developments: - European indices were seen opening modestly lower: FTSE and DAX about 0.13% down, CAC 40 flat, FTSE MIB down about 0.26%, per IG. - Reports say widespread protests in Iran were met with a response from authorities; President Donald Trump is reviewing options and aides are due to brief him on Tuesday. - The Department of Justice opened a criminal investigation related to Jerome Powell's Senate testimony on the renovation of Fed office buildings, and Powell confirmed the inquiry in a video statement. - Powell said the investigation was an attempt to influence monetary policy and that he would not bow to pressure; his term as Fed chair is due to end in May. Summary: The developments have weighed on market sentiment and futures. Aides are set to brief President Trump on Tuesday; the status of the DOJ investigation's next procedural step is undetermined at this time.