Munich — European markets finished Monday slightly higher as investors processed key takeaways from this year’s Munich Security Conference. The pan-European Stoxx 600 climbed 0.1%, while major national indexes, including France’s CAC 40, Italy’s FTSE MIB, and the U.K.’s FTSE 100, also gained.
Trading in Dassault Systèmes paused briefly after the stock fell sharply following a rating cut by broker AlphaValue. Analysts cited concerns over AI monetization and waning momentum, leaving shares down 10% by the close.
Geopolitical developments drove investor attention. Policymakers and European leaders emphasized boosting defense spending and advancing strategic autonomy. Discussions included proposals for a common nuclear shield. Even as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio struck a conciliatory tone, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted a “deep divide” in the transatlantic alliance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated his country’s aim to join the EU by 2027.
Corporate news supported gains in some areas. NatWest Group rose 4.7% after launching a £750 million share buyback program. European mining stocks, however, slipped following operational disruptions, including a fatality at Rio Tinto’s Simandou iron-ore project in Guinea.
Markets in Asia saw mixed moves, with Japan’s Nikkei up 0.2%, while China, South Korea, and Taiwan remained closed for the Lunar New Year. U.S. markets were also closed for Presidents’ Day.
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