The DAX Index Opens 0.74% Lower

Frankfurt's DAX 40 was down for a second session on Friday, falling over 1% to trade below 22,400, as investors remained cautious amid mixed signals surrounding developments in the Middle East. US President Trump extended the deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by ten days, setting a new date of 6 April, and said talks are “going very well,” despite repeated denials from Iran. At the same time, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul confirmed that indirect contacts are ongoing, with direct talks expected to take place in Pakistan. However, attacks have continued, and the Strait of Hormuz remains virtually impassable, continuing to put pressure on the oil market. Among the biggest losers were Siemens Energy and Infineon, dropping 4.4% and 2.8%, respectively. SAP shares, on the other hand, rose by 1.2%. For the week, the index was almost unchanged.

The DAX Index is losing -167 points. Losses were led by Siemens Energy (-3.89%), Infineon (-2.17%) and Siemens (-1.72%). Offsetting the fall, top gainers were SAP (1.36%), Deutsche Boerse (0.76%) and BASF (0.20%).

Frankfurt's DAX 40 closed about 1.5% down at 22,581 on Thursday, reversing yesterday's gains, amid lingering uncertainty surrounding the end of the war in the Middle East. After issuing a stark warning to Iran to make progress in talks or face intensified action, Trump later tempered expectations of a negotiated deal he had earlier alluded to in a Cabinet meeting, stressing that any breakthrough hinges on Iran’s willingness to compromise. The prolonged tensions are driving energy prices higher and contributing to rising global inflation and economic concerns. Mos sectors saw declines, led by industrials, retailers, financials and techs. In equities, Siemens Energy, Rheinmetall, MTU Aero Engines, Zalando, Airbus saw losses between 3%-5.2%. Porsche Automobil Holding dropped nearly 3% after reporting a drop in its after-tax profit for 2025, pressured by costs both in the broader automotive group and at Porsche AG.