French Stocks Rebound, Yet Weekly Loss Still in Sight

2026-03-20 08:48 By Czyrill Jean Coloma 1 min. read

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.



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French Stocks Rebound, Yet Weekly Loss Still in Sight
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.
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