FX.co ★ European Stocks Hit Record Highs

European equities rose on Wednesday, supported by easing concerns over potential disruption from artificial intelligence and cautious optimism ahead of further clarity on US trade policy. The Euro Stoxx 50 advanced 0.7% to a record high of 6,160, while the broader STOXX Europe 600 added 0.4%, closing above 630 for the first time. Attention now turns to Nvidia’s earnings, due later in the day, which are expected to offer fresh insight into the strength and durability of AI-driven demand. In Europe, HSBC Holdings’ shares jumped more than 5% after the bank reported stronger-than-expected results for 2025. On the macroeconomic front, German consumer confidence unexpectedly deteriorated heading into March, while sentiment in France improved in February, painting a mixed picture of household confidence across the region.