European shares regained ground on Wednesday after a steep fall the previous day, as crude oil slipped back and investors weighed mixed signals from the Middle East.
The pan-European STOXX 600 was trading 0.7% higher at 611.06 points as of 0703 GMT, recovering from a decline of more than 1% at Tuesday's close. Regional markets advanced as well, with Spain's IBEX 35 up 0.6% and Germany's DAX rising 0.7%.
Geopolitical developments remained a focal point for traders. Ahead of a summit in Beijing, U.S. President Donald Trump said he does not think he will need China's help to end the war with Iran, even as hopes for a lasting peace deal diminished and Tehran consolidated control over the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations between Washington and Tehran have stalled, with both sides unable to reach an agreement.
Those tense conditions in the Middle East continue to influence energy markets. "Concerns over supply disruptions and uncertainty surrounding the Middle East are keeping oil prices well-supported, even as traders struggle to establish a clear direction," said Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova.
At the same time, the earnings calendar was wrapping up for the first quarter. Aggregate corporate profits are forecast to rise at the fastest pace in three years, with European earnings expected to have grown 10.2% for the quarter, according to LSEG-compiled data.
Individual stock movers helped bolster the market. German chemicals and health group Merck jumped 8% after the company raised its forecast range for full-year adjusted operating profit. Insurance giant Allianz gained 1.6% following a reported 52% increase in first-quarter net profit.
The article also referenced ALVG in relation to a fair value calculator for investors interested in valuation, signaling additional resources available for those seeking deeper analysis of individual names.
Overall, the market rebound was driven by a combination of easing oil prices, company-specific positive earnings and guidance, and ongoing attention to geopolitical developments that continue to shadow energy and regional risk assessments.
Key data points: STOXX 600 +0.7% at 611.06 points as of 0703 GMT; IBEX 35 +0.6%; DAX +0.7%; Merck +8%; Allianz +1.6%; European earnings expected +10.2% (LSEG).