09.01.202608:36:37UTC+00European Stocks Rise, Glencore Soars

The STOXX 50 increased by 0.5%, and the STOXX 600 saw a rise of 0.4% on Friday, breaking a three-session losing streak and achieving new record levels for both indexes. The mining sector was particularly noteworthy, with Glencore's shares soaring almost 7% following reports of Rio Tinto's interest in acquiring the company. This acquisition would potentially form the largest mining conglomerate globally, boasting a combined market valuation surpassing $200 billion, a little more than a year after the previous discussions between the two entities fell through. Conversely, Rio Tinto's shares declined by 2.7%. Anglo American experienced a 1.8% increase, while Norsk Hydro ticked up by 0.2%. The technology sector also saw upward movement, highlighted by a 3.5% rise in ASML Holding. SAP witnessed an increment of 0.3%, and Infineon appreciated by 1.4%. In contrast, Sainsbury's shares dropped almost 5%, positioning it as one of the lowest performers on the STOXX 600, following the release of underwhelming Christmas trading results from the supermarket chain. Over the initial week of 2026, the STOXX 50 recorded a 0.9% increase, and the STOXX 600 rose by 1.2%.