STOXX 600 Dips Amid Economic Uncertainties and Weak Corporate Earnings

Europe's STOXX 600 index fell sharply, marking its worst monthly performance in a year due to weak corporate earnings and U.S. election uncertainties. Key sectors like retail and technology dropped, while major companies reported mixed earnings, adding to investor concerns about productivity and profit forecasts.

Europe's STOXX 600 index faced a downturn on Thursday, primarily driven by disappointing corporate earnings. The benchmark index plummeted by 0.7%, reaching its lowest point in nearly two months, and is poised to conclude October with its poorest performance in a year.

The nail-biting U.S. presidential election added to investor anxiety, leading many to pivot towards safer assets such as gold and the dollar. Senior market analyst Daniela Hathorn highlighted concerns over potential international trade disruptions instigated by tariff threats, exacerbating worries about global productivity.

Most STOXX 600 sub-sectors traded lower, with the retail sector dipping 2.3% and technology stocks dropping 1.1%. While Shell and Airbus posted positive results, others like TotalEnergies and BNP Paribas struggled, as investors await critical Eurozone economic data.

(With inputs from agencies.)