FX.co ★ European Stocks Fall Again

European stocks fell on Thursday, with the STOXX 50 down 1.2% and the STOXX 600 losing 1.9%, as optimism for a quick resolution to the conflict with Iran faded following comments from US President Trump. He said the US operation was nearing completion and promised more aggressive measures, but offered few specifics, leaving investors without a clear timetable for withdrawal or a definitive plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In response, oil prices jumped, moving back above $105 per barrel. All sectors ended lower except energy, while technology and industrial shares led the sell-off. Notable laggards included ASML Holding (-4.1%), Infineon (-4.4%), Siemens Energy (-3.7%), and STMicroelectronics (-3.5%). Despite Thursday’s pullback, European equities are still on track to finish the week higher, with the STOXX 50 up 2.3% and the STOXX 600 ahead 2.7% so far. Markets across the region will be closed on Friday for the Easter holiday.