France stocks higher at close of trade; CAC 40 up 0.61%
France equities finished higher, with the CAC 40 rising 0.61% to a new all-time high and the broader SBF 120 gaining 0.63%. The move was led by Technology, Industrials, and Basic Materials, while defensive/consumer names such as Kering, TotalEnergies, and Pernod Ricard lagged. ArcelorMittal, STMicroelectronics, and Thales were among the strongest CAC 40 performers, and Soitec surged nearly 10% on the SBF 120. The article also highlighted a sharp drop in crude and Brent oil and gains in gold, alongside a steadier euro and a slightly lower U.S. dollar index. Overall, the session reflected broad risk appetite in French equities, with the index pushing into record territory despite weakness in energy-related commodities.