Investing.com -- British stocks slipped on Monday, mirroring broader losses across European markets, as global investors turned their attention to U.S.-China trade talks set to take place in London later today.

The blue-chip index FTSE 100 fell 0.1%, while the British pound gained 0.3% against the dollar to over 1.3550.

Meanwhile, DAX index in Germany fell 0.5%, the CAC 40 in France dropped 0.2%.

Latest on U.S.-China trade talks

Senior officials from U.S. and China are set to meet in London later today, following a phone call between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump less than a week ago.

On Friday, Trump named Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to head the U.S. delegation.

China’s foreign ministry also confirmed Monday that it will take part in the high-level trade discussions.

Frasers Group exploring possible bid for Revolution Beauty

Revolution Beauty Group PLC (LON:REVB) confirmed that Frasers Group PLC (LON:FRAS) is among multiple parties currently carrying out due diligence, following media speculation about a possible acquisition.

The company noted that this development builds on its May 21 update and stressed that no formal offer has been finalized at this stage.

L’Oréal to take majority stake in British Skincare brand Medik8

L’Oreal SA (EPA:OREP) said it has signed an agreement to acquire a majority stake in British skincare brand Medik8, expanding its Luxe Division with a science-backed label known for its Vitamin C and retinol-based products.

The transaction brings Medik8 into L’Oréal’s portfolio of premium skincare brands. L’Oréal said Inflexion, a private equity firm, will retain a minority stake in Medik8.

Reeves set to meet Chinese Vice Premier

U.K. Finance Minister Rachel Reeves is reportedly scheduled to meet with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng during his visit to Britain this week.

The meeting is part of broader trade discussions that will also involve senior U.S. officials, according to a British government source cited by Reuters.

Qualcomm to acquire Alphawave in $2.4 bln deal

Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ:QCOM) has announced plans to acquire U.K.-based semiconductor firm Alphawave IP Group (LON:IPO) PLC (LON:AWE) for approximately $2.4 billion, representing a 96% premium, as part of its strategy to enhance its AI and data center connectivity offerings.

Shares of Alphawave closed over 19% higher after the announcement.

Under the deal, Alphawave shareholders will receive $2.48 per share in cash, or roughly 183 pence based on current exchange rates.

WPP (LON:WPP) CEO to retire

Mark Read, CEO of WPP Group, plans to retire by year-end after more than 30 years with the company, including seven as chief executive, according to an announcement on Monday.