Europe’s main stock index closed broadly flat after a volatile session on Wednesday, with investors remaining on edge as geopolitical tensions between Ukraine and Russia continued to cast a shadow over markets.
The pan-European STOXX 600 index closed at 500.53 points, compared to 500.60 the day before.
He fell for the fourth consecutive session, recording his longest losing streak in more than two months.
It hit its lowest level in three months on Tuesday, amid investors’ rush into safe havens.
Ukraine fired a barrage of British Storm Shadow cruise missiles at Russia on Wednesday, a day after firing US ATACMS missiles with the approval of outgoing President Joe Biden’s administration.
Russia has lowered the threshold for a nuclear attack and Reuters reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to discuss a ceasefire deal in Ukraine with US President-elect Donald Trump as long as it excludes major concessions on territorial issues and that Kiev abandons the plans. join NATO.
The main stock exchanges in Germany (), France () and Spain () also lost initial gains and closed the session in the red.
The Euro STOXX volatility index closed at 20.06.
Auto stocks led sector declines, losing 1.2%.
Rate-sensitive real estate stocks were the biggest drag on the index, down 0.7%.
“Europe has been driven by geopolitical uncertainty – by fears that the conflict between Ukraine and Russia could take a more dangerous turn after Ukraine attacked twice inside Russian territory,” said Elias Haddad, senior market strategist at Brown Brothers Harriman.
“There is also the prospect of slow Eurozone growth, which is also an important factor in a more cyclical outlook that is weighing on Europe.”
Attention is also on appointments in US President-elect Donald Trump’s administration, including the search for a Treasury secretary. Wall Street CEO Howard Lutnick will lead Trump’s trade and tariff strategy.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
![Such a wonderful sun in advance: Summary of the Episode of Friday May 16, 2025 [SPOILERS]](https://fr.web.img6.acsta.net/img/80/9c/809ce4d392c79673bfdac77c4f2200fe.jpg "Such a wonderful sun in advance: Summary of the Episode of Friday May 16, 2025 [SPOILERS]")
