Key facts
- European shares rose on Thursday.
- The pan-European STOXX 600 index finished 0.5% higher.
- Healthcare stocks led the gains.
- Oil prices eased.
- Investor caution persisted regarding Middle East developments.
- Markets are pricing in a European Central Bank rate hike next week.
European stock markets experienced an increase on Thursday, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index closing 0.5% higher. The gains were primarily driven by healthcare stocks. Concurrently, oil prices eased. Investor sentiment remained cautious due to ongoing developments in the Middle East and persistent inflationary pressures. These price pressures have led markets to anticipate a rate hike by the European Central Bank in the upcoming week.