European Stocks Start Trading Slightly HigherBrussels, 19 Aug (ONA) — European stocks rose today by approximately a slight amount, as investors assessed the possibility that Russia and Ukraine might reach a peace agreement.
The pan‑European STOXX 600 index climbed by 0.1 percent, and most major exchanges in the region gained. Meanwhile, defense sector shares fell by 0.7 percent, weighed down by news of a potential Russia‑Ukraine summit – hopes for de‑escalation dampened demand for assets tied to military activities.
Shares in Renk Group, Rheinmetall, and Hensoldt dropped by between 1.9 percent and 3.2 percent.
Merck’s stock also dipped slightly after Barclays downgraded its rating. — Ends/AH
