European Stocks Soar

2026-04-08 07:14 By Joana Taborda 1 min. read

European stocks rallied sharply on Wednesday, led by a near 5% surge in the STOXX 50 and a 3.6% gain in the STOXX 600, which climbed to its highest level in roughly a month.

The advance reflected a broadly optimistic market sentiment after the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, just as the deadline set by President Trump was about to expire.

Iran also announced that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be guaranteed during this period, easing concerns over supply disruptions.

As a result, oil prices plunged by around 15%.

Gains were widespread across all sectors, with consumer cyclicals and technology stocks leading the rally.

Antofagasta (12.4%), ArcelorMittal (12%), Lufthansa (11.5%) and ThyssenKrupp (10.5%) were among the top performers.

ASML Holding (8.2%), LVMH (6.8%) and L'Oreal (3.9%) were also sharply higher.

In contrast, energy stocks fell sharply, including Eni (-8.4%), Repsol (-8.8%), BP (-7.7%), Shell (-6.9%) and TotalEnergies (-6.6%).



News Stream
European Stocks Soar
European stocks rallied sharply on Wednesday, led by a near 5% surge in the STOXX 50 and a 3.6% gain in the STOXX 600, which climbed to its highest level in roughly a month. The advance reflected a broadly optimistic market sentiment after the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, just as the deadline set by President Trump was about to expire. Iran also announced that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be guaranteed during this period, easing concerns over supply disruptions. As a result, oil prices plunged by around 15%. Gains were widespread across all sectors, with consumer cyclicals and technology stocks leading the rally. Antofagasta (12.4%), ArcelorMittal (12%), Lufthansa (11.5%) and ThyssenKrupp (10.5%) were among the top performers. ASML Holding (8.2%), LVMH (6.8%) and L'Oreal (3.9%) were also sharply higher. In contrast, energy stocks fell sharply, including Eni (-8.4%), Repsol (-8.8%), BP (-7.7%), Shell (-6.9%) and TotalEnergies (-6.6%).
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