"European Markets Slip Ahead of ECB Rate Decision"

European markets opened lackluster ahead of the European Central Bank's rate decision, with expectations of a hold at the record 4%. UK house prices rose for the fifth consecutive month, indicating a return of cautious confidence in the real estate market. Foreign investors eye India's growth potential, but face barriers such as limits on foreign ownership and complex tax implications. Analysts favor value stocks amid expensive growth stocks, with a shift to more value-oriented names anticipated. European markets are expected to open flat to lower, with the ECB's monetary policy announcement and earnings reports from Continental, Lufthansa, ITV, Admiral Group, and Kier on the agenda.