FX.co ★ European Stocks Close Week Higher

European stocks advanced on Friday, supported by signs of easing geopolitical tensions that could alleviate supply pressures on key energy commodities. The Eurozone’s STOXX 50 climbed 0.5% to 5,933, while the pan-European STOXX 600 added 0.4% to 615. Ukrainian officials voiced renewed optimism over talks with Russia that could pave the way toward ending the war, while US President Trump adopted a less confrontational stance toward Iran and satellite data indicated a group of vessels was passing through the Strait of Hormuz. These developments brightened the outlook for Europe’s energy supply, previously strained by disruptions to both oil and gas flows. Bank stocks rallied despite a rebound in bond yields, with UniCredit, Nordea, and BBVA each gaining close to 2%. Lower natural gas prices also supported industrial heavyweights, with Schneider Electric and Siemens both adding around 2%. For the week, the STOXX 50 gained 4.2%, bolstered by a 5% surge on Wednesday after US threats against Iran failed to materialize.