European Stocks Cautious to Kick Off September

2026-09-01 07:42 By Joana Taborda 1 min. read

European stocks were broadly flat to higher on Tuesday as investors kicked off September by looking past another rise in oil prices amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran.

The increase in energy prices is adding to inflationary pressures and strengthening expectations that the ECB will raise interest rates further.

Eurozone flash inflation figures are expected to reinforce expectations for further monetary-policy tightening.

At the sector level, chemicals was among the best performers.

Air Liquide shares gained around 3.8% after reports that activist investor Elliott Management had built a stake in the company.

Tech stocks also advanced, with ASML rising 1.5% and Infineon gaining 2.5%.

Energy stocks were another source of strength as higher oil prices supported the sector, with TotalEnergies up 2.1% and Eni gaining 1.6%.

On the other hand, Rolls-Royce (-3.8%) and Rheinmetall (-1.8%) were among the worst performers and Roche (-2%) and SAP (-2.1%) also booked losses.



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European Stocks Cautious to Kick Off September
European stocks were broadly flat to higher on Tuesday as investors kicked off September by looking past another rise in oil prices amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran. The increase in energy prices is adding to inflationary pressures and strengthening expectations that the ECB will raise interest rates further. Eurozone flash inflation figures are expected to reinforce expectations for further monetary-policy tightening. At the sector level, chemicals was among the best performers. Air Liquide shares gained around 3.8% after reports that activist investor Elliott Management had built a stake in the company. Tech stocks also advanced, with ASML rising 1.5% and Infineon gaining 2.5%. Energy stocks were another source of strength as higher oil prices supported the sector, with TotalEnergies up 2.1% and Eni gaining 1.6%. On the other hand, Rolls-Royce (-3.8%) and Rheinmetall (-1.8%) were among the worst performers and Roche (-2%) and SAP (-2.1%) also booked losses.
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