European Stocks Hit Record Highs, Markets Await Nvidia Test
European stocks rallied on Wednesday (February 25th), driven by easing market concerns about potential AI disruption and cautious optimism regarding the direction of US trade policy. The Euro Stoxx 50 rose around 0.7% to hit a new record, while the STOXX Europe 600 gained around 0.4% to break through the 630 level for the first time, confirming strong risk appetite in the eurozone.
Investors' focus now shifts to Nvidia's earnings report, due later today, as the results are seen as crucial for assessing the strength and sustainability of demand for AI spending. If Nvidia's report is solid, the global tech sector rally could continue; conversely, a negative surprise could reignite the volatility that has been plaguing the market.
On the issuer side, HSBC was in the spotlight after reporting better-than-expected 2025 results, supported by growth in its wealth management business and a strengthening Hong Kong franchise—driving its shares to surge more than 5% and boosting sentiment on European exchanges.
Meanwhile, macro indicators are giving mixed signals. German consumer confidence actually weakened heading into March, underscoring household caution in Europe's largest economy, although sentiment in France reportedly improved. This combination of factors kept European markets firm, but with close attention to the next global data and catalysts—particularly US tariffs and the direction of growth influenced by the AI cycle.
Source: Newsmaker.id
