European Markets Rise on Iran Talks and Inflation Data European stock markets opened higher on Wednesday as the U.S. signaled ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions with Iran, with Tehran indicating it might permit “non-hostile” vessels to transit the Strait of Hormuz. The pan-European Stoxx 600 index rose 1.4% in early trading, with all sectors except oil and gas stocks gaining ground. The U.K.’s FTSE 100 climbed 0.9%, Germany’s DAX advanced 1.6%, and France’s CAC 40 gained 1.4%. Italy’s FTSE MIB also rose 1.4%. Mining and construction sectors led the gains, with Fresnillo, a FTSE 100-listed miner, up 3.5%, and Hochschild Mining rising 4.8%. UK property developer Bellway rebounded sharply, surging 4.6% after earlier losing 17.5% on Tuesday due to warnings about mortgage market volatility linked to inflationary pressures. The U.K. inflation rate remained stable at 3% in February, according to the Office for National Statistics, the final reading before the escalation of the Iran conflict. Core inflation, excluding volatile categories like energy and food, rose to 3.2% from 3.1% in January, aligning with economists’ forecasts. U.S. President Donald Trump stated during a press briefing in the Oval Office that negotiations with Iran are ongoing, and he has paused threats against Iranian energy infrastructure “based on the fact we’re negotiating.” He emphasized that Iran is “talking to us and talking sense.” The New York Times reported that the U.S. had sent Iran a 15-point plan to end the conflict, citing unnamed officials. Gold prices surged over 2% on Wednesday, while oil prices fell, easing concerns about inflation. Iran’s UN Mission confirmed via X that “non-hostile vessels, including those of other states,” could secure “safe passage” through the Strait of Hormuz with coordination.#strait_of_hormuz #dax #office_for_national_statistics #ftse_100 #cac_40
