European Stocks See Muted Movement
European stock markets traded flat on Thursday. Strong corporate earnings helped offset pressure stemming from uncertainty regarding the Federal Reserve's interest rate policy and escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. The STOXX 600 index hovered near its opening level, while Germany's DAX fell 0.2% and France's CAC 40 rose 0.6%.
Shell shares were a key support, surging after its second-quarter net profit jumped to US$9.8 billion—well above market expectations. Banking stocks such as Societe Generale and BBVA also rallied following solid performance results. Schneider Electric surged more than 7% after raising its annual performance targets.
However, investors remained cautious after the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady without providing clear guidance on its next policy move. Market sentiment was also weighed down by fresh US actions against Iran, reigniting concerns over energy prices and inflation risks.
Tech stocks showed fragile movement. Reports from Microsoft and Samsung helped ease concerns regarding the AI sector, but a decline in Meta's cash flow raised fresh questions about the scale of technology investment costs. Markets are now awaiting the Bank of England's decision, as well as data on European economic growth and inflation.
Source: Newsmaker.id
