Business · Markets · 9 hrs ago
European stocks post biggest weekly loss since early September
European shares fell about 1.4% over the week, their biggest weekly loss since early September.
The Stoxx 600, a broad index of European companies, ended Friday down 0.31% at 635.77 points.
Unrest in France and higher oil prices unsettled investors, outweighing optimism from some strong company earnings.
The unrest comes ahead of France's presidential election next year, and President Emmanuel Macron is seeking to restore order after protests turned violent.
Several major companies reported mixed results, including Kering, whose shares fell 16.6% after Gucci sales declined, while L'Oréal rose 5.6% after sales beat expectations.
Volvo Cars fell more than 24% after reporting a larger-than-expected operating loss and plans for 2,500 more job cuts.
French unrest is expected to remain a market concern, though the available information gives no further forecast for the coming days.
European stocks recorded their biggest weekly loss since early September, with the STOXX 600 down about 1.4% over the week.
The index fell 0.31% to close at 635.77 points on Friday.
Investor concerns about rising oil prices and unrest in France offset optimism from some strong corporate earnings.
Kering shares dropped 16.6% after lower third-quarter sales at Gucci, while Volvo Cars fell more than 24% after reporting a larger-than-expected operating loss.
- Who
- European stocks, including companies listed on the STOXX 600.
- What
- The STOXX 600 fell about 1.4% over the week, its biggest weekly loss since early September.
- When
- The week ending Friday, October 23, 2026.
- Where
- European stock markets.
- Why
- Rising oil prices and unrest in France unsettled investors, offsetting optimism from some corporate earnings.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The previous largest weekly loss for European stocks had occurred.
The STOXX 600 fell 0.31% to close at 635.77 points.
France is scheduled to hold a presidential election.
- STOXX 600 weekly change
- Down about 1.4%
- STOXX 600 Friday close
- 635.77 points
- Kering share change
- Down 16.6%
- Volvo Cars share change
- Down more than 24%
- France presidential election
- Scheduled for next year
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What people are saying
What is happening in France will remain at least a factor affecting the market throughout the election cycle. Protests may fade, but that does not change the fiscal reality France faces.