2026.02.2317:22:02UTC+00European Stocks Ease from Records

European stock indices slipped on Monday, retreating from the record highs reached in the previous session amid renewed trade uncertainty and mounting concerns over AI-driven job and demand displacement. The Eurozone’s STOXX index eased 0.3% to 6,115, while the pan-European STOXX 600 fell 0.5% to 630.

Software and payments were among the weakest sectors. SAP and Adyen dropped 3.4% and 5.4%, respectively, mirroring declines in their US-listed peers as investors worried that increasingly sophisticated AI automation tools could weigh on future demand for software and payment services.

Automakers also came under pressure after the European Union halted ratification of its trade deal with the United States. The decision followed a White House announcement that it would reinstate certain tariffs under new economic emergency measures, despite last year’s trade agreement that had been prompted by a US Supreme Court ruling striking down country-specific tariffs. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen lost between 1.5% and 3%.

In contrast, Enel jumped 6.8% after unveiling a new investment plan and announcing a €1 billion share buyback program.