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European Markets Hover Near Record Highs as Corporate Results Drive Gains

European equity indices stayed close to all‑time highs on Thursday, with modest moves reflecting a wave of corporate earnings and strategic announcements. The Euro Stoxx 50 edged up 0.2% to 6,185 points while the broader STOXX Europe 600 was virtually unchanged at 633 points, underscoring a market that is now more driven by company‑specific news than macro‑economic data. Energy giant Engie jumped 7% after unveiling a full‑takeover plan for UK Power Networks, and the London Stock Exchange Group surged 5.9% on a £3 billion share‑buyback programme. Other notable gainers included Rolls‑Royce, Puma, Schneider Electric, Eni, Deutsche Telekom and Clariant, while Stellantis and Allianz posted modest slips.

February 26th, 2026
1 min read
By boursenews.ma

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Market Overview

European share markets traded with little volatility on Thursday, staying within striking distance of their historical peaks. The Euro Stoxx 50 inched up 0.2% to 6,185 points, while the broader STOXX Europe 600 held steady around 633 points. The lack of major macro‑economic triggers pointed to a market that is now reacting more to corporate disclosures than to policy news.

Key Movers

Engie led the rally, jumping 7% after unveiling a plan to acquire 100% of UK Power Networks, a deal that would deepen its foothold in the UK energy‑infrastructure sector. London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) surged 5.9% following the launch of a £3 billion share‑buyback programme, a response to mounting pressure from activist investor Elliott Investment Management.

Winners

  • Rolls‑Royce: +6% after raising earnings guidance and announcing a $12 billion share‑repurchase plan.
  • Puma: +4% on better‑than‑expected sales, despite canceling its dividend and warning of a possible annual loss.
  • Schneider Electric, Eni, Deutsche Telekom and Clariant all posted gains after solid quarterly results.

Losers

  • Stellantis: -1% after reporting its first annual loss, driven by €25.4 billion in asset write‑downs tied to its EV transition.
  • Allianz: -0.9% as investors grew cautious following 2026 forecasts that fell short of market expectations.

ENGI Data

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