May data shows a 1.9% monthly gain in German factory orders, offsetting broader regional market stagnation amid weak crude prices.
European equities posted marginal gains as German factory orders climbed 1.9% month-over-month in May, exceeding expectations. The UKX rose 0.12%, while the DAX and CAC added 0.05% and 0.21%, respectively, reflecting subdued investor sentiment amid persistent pressure on crude oil prices.
Prior to May, German factory orders had shown volatility, with April’s data revised downward. Switzerland’s unemployment rate dipped to 2.9% in June, while Slovakia’s retail sales grew 0.9% year-over-year, signaling mixed economic signals across the region.
Markets remained cautious as energy sector weakness weighed on broader sentiment, with crude prices continuing to trade below recent highs.