European Stocks Kick Off the Week Lower

2026-05-18 07:37 By Joana Taborda 1 min. read

European stocks started the week lower, mirroring the broader risk-off mood across global markets.

The STOXX 50 fell 1.3%, while the STOXX 600 lost 0.8%, as investors remained focused on escalating tensions in the Middle East, with little sign of progress on the horizon.

US President Trump intensified the rhetoric, urging Iran to “get moving, FAST” on a peace agreement, warning that “the clock is ticking” and that there “won’t be anything left” if action is not taken soon, adding that “time is of the essence”.

Corporate updates were also weighing on investors' sentiment.

ASML Holding declined 2.7% despite announcing a partnership with Tata Electronics aimed at developing domestic semiconductor manufacturing capabilities in India.

LVMH also dropped more than 2% after reports emerged that it plans to sell its Marc Jacobs brand to WHP.

Ryanair tumbled 2.6% after releasing full-year earnings and warned of weaker-than-expected summer pricing trends.



News Stream
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