European shares were on track for their first monthly decline in six months, with the pan-European STOXX 600 up 0.7% at 642.69 points by 0722 GMT on Wednesday but set to finish September down 1.5%. The index was also headed for a nearly flat third quarter. Global bond yields have risen to multi-decade highs as investors prepare for higher interest rates to contain inflation linked to surging energy prices and the Middle East war. Oil prices edged higher after US President Donald Trump denied he would be willing to ease sanctions on Iran, while Qatar pushed for peace talks. Bond-market pressure eased somewhat as the 10-year German bund yield fell for a second day. Britain's economy grew faster than previously estimated in the second quarter, while France's September inflation reading exceeded expectations. Germany's September inflation data was due later Wednesday and could provide further clues about the country's economic health. Mining stocks gained, led by Boliden AB and Rio Tinto, while media shares weighed on the market. Glencore rose 1.4% after receiving approval to continue operating its Hunter Valley thermal coal project in Australia until 2045.