European Markets Tumble Amid Semiconductor Industry Concerns

European shares dropped for the third straight session, led by declines in semiconductor stocks like ASML, ASM International, and BE Semiconductor. Investor concerns were heightened by potential U.S. trade restrictions affecting semiconductor technology. Other market movements included gains for Adidas and Roche, and a slip for Britain's FTSE 100 amid inflation data.

European shares fell for a third consecutive session on Wednesday, dragged down by Dutch semiconductor firm ASML following a weak forecast, while investors were wary of potentially strict U.S. trade rules.

The pan-European STOXX 600 index fell 0.5% to a one-week low as of 0830 GMT, with the technology sub-index falling 2.6%. ASML shares shed 6.4% after the chipmaking equipment supplier fell short of estimates for third-quarter sales forecast.

Adding to losses was a report saying the United States has told its allies it is considering using the most severe trade restrictions available if companies continue giving China access to advanced semiconductor technology. Other semiconductor stocks also lost ground. ASM International and BE Semiconductor both fell more than 3% each.

The stocks weighed on Amsterdam's benchmark index, which was down 1.1% to its lowest in two weeks. Thomas Gehlen, senior market strategist at SG Kleinwort Hambros, stated that trade restrictions are a concern for European companies but noted that such measures can also impact U.S. companies.

European shares have been subdued this week as market participants assessed a flurry of dour earning updates. Britain's FTSE 100 slipped 0.3% after data showed inflation held at 2%, against estimates of a fall, tempering investor bets for an interest rate cut from the Bank of England.

Among other stocks, Adidas gained 3.9% after the German sportswear maker increased its full-year earnings forecast. Rival Puma also rose 1.5%. Roche jumped 5% after positive early-stage trial results from a new drug candidate, while shares of rival Novo Nordisk fell 3.6%.

(With inputs from agencies.)