The DAX 40 closed about 0.8% higher at 26,223 on Tuesday, setting a fresh record high and marking a fourth straight session of gains, driven mainly by technology and AI-related stocks. Sentiment was supported by a robust earnings season and renewed optimism about a possible agreement to end the conflict in the Middle East.
Oil prices gave up earlier gains and turned lower after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signaled that a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could be reached as early as Tuesday or Wednesday.
Among the notable movers, Infineon Technologies outperformed with a gain of more than 4%. Merck climbed 2.7% after posting second-quarter 2026 revenue and profit above market expectations and raising its full-year outlook. Bayer advanced 2.4% after reporting stronger-than-expected Q2 earnings and lowering its net debt forecast for 2026.
On the downside, Zalando sank 13% following disappointing results and a narrowing of its full-year guidance.
