European equity markets were positioned for a stronger Friday open as oil prices fell and global bond yields stabilized after sharp increases over the previous two sessions. Reports that the US and Iran were considering a phased agreement helped push oil lower, with the potential arrangement involving reopening the Strait of Hormuz and lifting a US blockade on Iranian ports. Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping also concluded bilateral talks in Washington, which Trump described as "great." Investors in Europe were set to assess German consumer confidence, French employment and Spanish GDP data, while no major earnings releases were scheduled. Euro Stoxx 50 futures rose 0.8% and Stoxx 600 futures gained 0.7% in premarket trading.