European Stocks Slip for the Week Amid Israel-Iran Tensions

Weekly Declines Despite Friday Gains
The Stoxx Europe 600, the region-wide index, closed Friday up by 0.1% but recorded a 1.5% weekly loss. Most of the week was dominated by geopolitical concerns that weighed on sentiment and risk appetite.

Germany’s DAX index rose 1.2% on Friday, recovering ground, but it still closed the week nearly 1% lower. France’s CAC 40 gained 0.5% on the final trading day but registered a 1.2% drop over the week.

In the U.K., the FTSE 100 declined 0.2% on Friday and followed the broader downward trend, ending the week in negative territory as well.

Sector Performance and Energy Impact
While most sectors moved higher on Friday, the oil and gas segment lagged. The Stoxx Europe Oil and Gas Index traded 0.1% lower, impacted by falling energy prices. Brent crude futures dropped $1.78 (2.3%) to $77.07 per barrel, reflecting shifting expectations about global energy demand and geopolitical risk.

Midday Snapshot
At the halfway mark of Friday’s session, the Stoxx 600 was trading 0.6% higher, with broad-based gains except for energy. The momentum failed to lift the index out of the red for the full week, leaving it on track for a 1.1% weekly decline.

Investor Outlook
With escalating Middle East tensions and energy market instability in the spotlight, investors remained defensive. Despite Friday’s bounce, broader uncertainty continues to shape market sentiment as geopolitical developments unfold.

Photo: AFP Photo

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