The CAC 40 Index Closes 1.76% Lower

The CAC 40 rose 0.8% to 7,874 on Friday, rebounding from two consecutive sessions of losses as rattled global oil prices eased on signals of reduced geopolitical risk in the Middle East. President Donald Trump stated that the US is unlikely to deploy ground forces against Iran, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signaled a possible easing of sanctions on Iranian oil. Similarly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that Israel would avoid further strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure. Despite this, sentiment remained cautious, as the ongoing Middle East conflict continues to fuel inflation concerns, with markets pricing in at least two more rate hikes from the ECB. Luxury stocks led the advance, with LVMH rising 1.1% and Kering gaining 1.6%. Banking shares also outperformed, including BNP Paribas (1.7%), Crédit Agricole (1.5%), and Société Générale (1.7%). Despite Friday’s recovery, the CAC 40 remains on course for a third consecutive weekly decline.

The CAC 40 Index is up by 65 points or 0.83 percent on Friday. Top gainers are STMicroelectronics (3.23%), ArcelorMittal (2.43%) and Renault (2.12%). Biggest losses came from TotalEnergies SE (-0.46%) and Hermes International (-0.20%).

The CAC 40 Index fell -140 points or 1.76 percent on Thursday to close at 7830 points. Leading the losses are ArcelorMittal (-6.21%), Accor (-5.97%) and Hermes International (-5.84%).