European equity benchmarks finished modestly higher on Monday, supported by gains in the technology and energy sectors. The Euro STOXX 50 edged up 0.2% to 6,234, while the STOXX Europe 600 added 0.1% to 636, keeping the broader index close to its record high.
Chipmakers and firms with significant exposure to AI-related software rebounded after last week’s selloff. ASML climbed 2.3%, and Prosus advanced 2.6%, mirroring strength in US markets as investors continued to reassess positioning in speculative AI trades following upgraded guidance from several major players last week.
Energy producers also recovered, as weekend strikes between the US and Iran helped halt the recent sharp decline in crude oil prices. By contrast, banks lagged, pressured by a rebound in sovereign bond yields during the session.
Looking ahead, the European Central Bank’s forum in the coming days will be closely watched for signals from Governing Council members on whether another rate hike is possible this year. The recent drop in energy prices stands in contrast to persistent upward momentum in core inflation, complicating the policy outlook.
