European shares mixed ahead of ECB decision

European shares experienced a mixed session on Thursday, influenced by gains in energy sectors but tempered by declines in technology stocks ahead of the European Central Bank’s (ECB) anticipated interest rate decision later in the day.

The STOXX 600 index edged 0.3 per cent higher by 08:38 GMT, poised to break a three-day losing streak. Energy stocks bolstered the index with nearly a 1 per cent rise, buoyed by stronger crude prices.

However, the technology sector faced a 0.4 per cent decline, extending losses amid ongoing concerns over stricter US trade regulations. Ipek Ozkardeskaya, senior analyst at Swissquote Bank, highlighted broader worries in Europe regarding potential worsened trade relations under the Trump administration.

Investor focus remained fixed on the ECB’s interest rate decision, scheduled for 12:15 GMT, widely expected to maintain rates unchanged while hinting at potential future cuts.

Amidst a backdrop of subdued earnings reports and trade uncertainties, anticipation of monetary policy easing later this year continued to dominate market sentiment.

Swiss stocks declined by 0.5 per cent, with ABB leading losses at 5.3 per cent despite reporting slightly better-than-expected second-quarter profits under departing CEO Bjorn Rosengren.

In individual stock movements, French advertising group Publicis surged 4.9 per cent after upgrading its growth outlook, while Swedish hygiene firm Essity advanced 4.1 per cent on strong second-quarter earnings.

Conversely, Finnish telecom equipment maker Nokia saw a 7.2 per cent drop in shares following a 32 per cent decline in quarterly profits, while Husqvarna plunged 13.1 per cent after reporting a 9 per cent sales decrease due to cautious consumer spending.

Attribution: Reuters