European shares were little changed on Friday but remained on course for an eighth consecutive month of gains, supported by stronger-than-expected corporate earnings. Solid company updates helped sustain investor confidence, even as concerns over trade tariffs and artificial intelligence disruption continued to linger.
The pan-European STOXX 600 index edged up 0.1% to 634.16 points in early trading, hovering close to record highs. Mining stocks led sector gains, rising 1.7% as commodity-linked shares outperformed.
If the current trend holds, the STOXX 600 will mark its longest monthly winning streak since the period between mid-2012 and 2013.
Throughout February, markets were weighed down by fears that rapid advances in artificial intelligence could disrupt traditional business models and pressure corporate profits. At the same time, uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policy intensified after President Donald Trump introduced a new global tariff framework.
Despite these headwinds, investors found reassurance in improving earnings guidance and resilient corporate performance across Europe. Positive updates from major companies, including HSBC, Nestle and Capgemini, helped lift overall sentiment.
Among individual stocks, Delivery Hero declined 5.2% after the online food delivery company reported annual gross merchandise value slightly below analyst expectations. The shortfall highlighted competitive pressures and a challenging macroeconomic environment.
Banking stocks also slipped, falling more than 0.4% each. Investors are closely watching developments related to the sector’s exposure to Market Financial Solutions (MFS), a mortgage finance firm that recently entered a UK insolvency process.
