Stock markets in Europe opened mostly higher on Friday after United Kingdom GDP data was revised up to show that the economy grew 0.2% in the second quarter. Meanwhile, a UK house price report warned that the housing market could "slow further in the months ahead." Inflation and unemployment numbers from the Eurozone, due to be released at 11 am CET, will be in the spotlight as the European Central Bank continues the battle to restore price stability. Elsewhere, Russia is expected to formally confirm the addition of four new territories in eastern Europe, a move that could escalate the ongoing conflict.

The DAX gained 0.66% at 9:03 am CET. Coverstro climbed 2.11% at 9:04 am CET. London's FTSE 100 was flat at 9:00 am CET. The CAC 40 rose by 0.57% at 9:01 am CET with its best performer Alstom up 1.33%.

The euro was 0.17% lower compared to the dollar, selling at 0.97989 at 8:59 am CET. The British pound increased by 0.17% against the greenback, going for 1.11365 at the same time.