European stocks are on the rise, supported by strong banking sectors and potential optimism for peace in Ukraine, while US markets face uncertainties.
European stock markets have demonstrated resilient growth, continuing to surpass American markets despite a recent recovery in Wall Street.
A recovery was observed following speculation that former US President
Donald Trump might ease tariffs, contributing to a positive market sentiment.
On Tuesday, the pan-European Stoxx 600 index increased by 0.67%, the German DAX rose by 1.13%, and the French CAC 40 strengthened by 1.08%.
Year-to-date performance indicates dominance for European shares, with the Stoxx 600 up 8.9% and the DAX climbing 16%, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq are down by 3% and 5.4%, respectively.
Key drives behind the increase in European markets include relatively lower valuations compared to US equities, heightened military spending, effective economic stimuli, and looser monetary policy within the eurozone.
Increased optimism surrounding a potential resolution to the conflict in Ukraine is also fueling expectations for economic growth in Europe.
Analysts from Goldman Sachs forecast a continued upward trend for European equities, with predictions suggesting a possible increase of an additional 5-6% over the next 12 months.
Positive economic indicators further support this optimism, as S&P Global recently reported better-than-expected results in the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) across essential European economies.
While the manufacturing sector continues to contract, the decline in Germany is noted to be the smallest since September 2022.
Meanwhile, uncertainties plague the American market, attributed largely to Trump's tariff policies aimed at reducing the trade deficit, which have created challenges for economic forecasts in the US. Recent data from the Conference Board revealed that consumer expectations in the US fell to their lowest level in the past 12 years.
In the realm of financial markets, European banks have emerged as the most profitable sector within the Stoxx 600 index.
Over the past three months, the financial sector has surged by 23% and has risen 25% year-to-date, while the overall Stoxx 600 recorded a modest increase of 5%.
Key factors contributing to the profitability of banks include strong financial results, generous dividends, and share buyback programs.