European companies' stocks continued their rise on Thursday, thanks to hopes of easing trade tensions. Investors purchased assets due to hopes that a number of countries, including the USA and China, can normalize relations after prolonged negotiations in the White House.
Major benchmark indices across Europe showed positive results, with the energy sector leading due to rising oil prices. Additionally, retailers also grew, as reports on sales in the USA turned out to be better than expected.
However, bank and insurance company stocks were subject to pressure due to concerns over the potential risks related to global economic instability and low interest rates. At the same time, energy companies benefitted from a strong rise in oil prices.
Regarding the latest news on the current state of the stock market, Charlotte-Anne More, investment analyst at BNP Paribas, remarked: "Investors remain optimistically positioned for the upcoming negotiations between key players in the global economy."
