"European Markets Brace for ECB Rate Decision Impact"

European markets were lower ahead of the European Central Bank's rate decision, with the pan-European Stoxx 600 down 0.3% in late-morning deals. Norway's central bank kept interest rates unchanged at 4.5%, citing the outlook and balance of risks. Nokia's shares rose 6% after forecasting a profit uptick, while IG Group fell 9.2% due to a fall in profits. Analysts are bullish on the healthcare sector, particularly biotech stocks, and UBS named over 10 global stocks as good plays this year amidst expectations of weak stagnation in Europe.