Europe seen lower on US growth fears

European equities are expected to open lower Thursday amid growing concerns for the health of the U.S. economy.

The FTSE is seen opening down 19 points at 6,930, the German DAX down 31 points at 11,320 and the French CAC down 8 points at 4,953.

Markets are closed in Austria, Iceland, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Denmark, Indonesia, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland for a public holiday.

Global market sentiment was hit overnight after weaker U.S. retail sales data for April, dashing hopes of a strong rebound in U.S. growth in the second quarter.

Expectations were for the data to show modest growth, partly due to the warmer weather.

In Asia, equities turned mixed on Thursday, mirroring the lower finish on Wall Street while gold hovered near a five-week high following the sluggish data.

In Europe, Greece remains in focus for markets. The country's negotiating team are expected to resume talks with the country's international creditors to reach a cash-for-reforms deal, a government official told Reuters Wednesday, after a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras.

The Greek government also ruled out rushing to a referendum to secure public support for unpopular reforms, opting instead to make a final push for a compromise with lenders by the end of the month.

Earnings in Europe are due from Generali, Telefonica and Manchester United football club.