DAX Tries to Recover

Frankfurt's DAX 40 gained ground to trade 1.5% higher on Wednesday, as sentiment improved following reports that Iran had offered to discuss the conditions for ending the conflict. While doubts remain about a swift resolution, this news offers a welcome respite for investors. At the same time, President Trump stated on Monday that the US Navy could escort oil tankers through the paralyzed Strait of Hormuz, alleviating upward pressure on oil prices. Almost all sectors advanced, led by technology stocks, with Infineon Technologies up 4.9%, Siemens 2.9%, and SAP 1.3%. Daimler Truck (4.8%), BASF (2.5%), Deutsche Post (2.3%), Rheinmetall (2.3%) and Allianz (1.8%) were also among the top performers. On the flip side, Adidas plunged 7% after reporting disappointing results. Bayer slipped 3.5% after 2026 profit guidance missed expectations despite positive Q4 results. Symrise fell 2.9% despite reporting decade-high profitability, as it forecast a low single-digit drop in Q1 organic sales.

Frankfurt's DAX edged up to around 23,880 on Wednesday, after two sessions of sharp declines, amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Sentiment improved slightly after President Trump stated that the US Navy could escort oil tankers through the paralyzed Strait of Hormuz, alleviating upward pressure on oil prices. Meanwhile, investors closely monitored corporate updates. Technology stocks led gains, with Infineon Technologies and SAP rising 1.9% and 0.9%, respectively. Insurers and defense stocks also staged a limited recovery, but banks remained under pressure. On the downside, Adidas plunged about 7% after reporting disappointing results. Shares of Bayer dropped almost 4% as Q4 earnings exceeded forecasts but 2026 profit guidance missed expectations. Continental shares dropped 2% following a disappointing 2026 profit outlook, particularly concerning tyre margins.

The DAX Index is gaining 74 points or 0.31 percent on Wednesday. Leading the gains are Daimler Truck Holding AG (2.35%), Infineon (1.81%) and Siemens Healthineers (1.77%). Top losers are Adidas (-7.31%), Bayer (-3.65%) and Continental (-2.85%).