Monday's trading on European markets fell into the red by close of play. The weaker stocks were telecommunications, financials and oil and markets fell further due to US markets at a lower level. The German DAX 30 fell by almost 1%. In Paris, the CAC 40 did not fare so badly, just ending below its opening point. Analysts believed that the markets had no guidance, bringing lack of investor confidence. Strong corporate earnings are now needed.
Tuesday saw European markets pull back and end with gains. The latest US consumer confidence index figures were out and they were confident! February's figure was 95 with 98 expected in March. What they actually got was 110.2! The German DAX 30 closed up over 1% and the CAC 40 in Paris closed up just short of 1%. The European economy still seems to be picking up, evidenced by the recent business sentiment survey up to 91.8 in March from 88.5 in February.
Wednesday's trading lacked direction, especially after uncertain trading from the US markets. By close of play, the German DAX 30 was down by almost 1%. The CAC 40 in Paris was down just short of 0.5%. As with the UK markets,
European markets were boosted on Thursday by the US. Both the DAX 30 and CAC 40 closed up by almost 1.5% each. The US economy had grown by 1.7% as opposed to the expected 1.4%. There was also a better than expected rise in the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index to 95.7 for March.
Friday saw European markets closed for the Easter bank holiday. Trading will start again on Tuesday next week due to markets again being closed on bank holiday Monday.