2026.03.0411:14:23UTC+00European Stocks Extend Gains

European stocks extended their advance on Wednesday, with the STOXX 50 jumping 1.6% and the STOXX 600 rising 1.2%, partially recovering from the nearly 6% and 5% declines, respectively, over the previous two sessions that had driven both benchmarks to roughly two‑month lows. Sentiment stabilized after a New York Times report suggested Iranian operatives had signaled a willingness to discuss terms for ending the conflict, while easing oil and gas prices further supported risk appetite.

All sectors finished in positive territory, led by technology, industrials, and financials. Among notable movers, ASML Holding gained 3.2%, L’Oréal advanced 1.8%, and SAP added 1.3%.

In Spain, equities reversed early weakness, with the Ibex 35 closing up nearly 1.8% as traders largely shrugged off US President Trump’s threat to halt trade with Spain following Madrid’s decision to deny the US use of its military bases for operations related to Iran.

On the downside, Adidas slumped about 7% after posting disappointing results.