DAX Index falters with energy sector decline ahead of OPEC+ decisions; FTSE 100 drops amid gains in precious metal miners.
European markets opened the week with a slight downward trend, as the STOXX 600, Germany’s DAX, and the UK’s FTSE-100 all registered modest losses. These declines come just days after the Stoxx 600 reached a notable high since late September.
In Germany, the DAX index was slightly down, influenced mainly by a dip in energy stocks and anticipation of European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde’s monetary policy remarks.
Brent oil’s fall towards $80 a barrel ahead of the OPEC+ meeting added to the pressure on energy shares. Meanwhile, rate-sensitive sectors like real estate and technology showed gains in the run-up to Lagarde’s speech.
With ECB policymakers hinting at potential rate hikes, markets remain skeptical, considering the slowing inflation and weakening economic indicators across Europe. Upcoming inflation data from Germany and the broader region will be key in shaping market sentiments, amidst Germany’s budget uncertainties.
The UK’s FTSE 100 saw a decline, primarily due to losses in energy and mining stocks. However, the FTSE 250 midcap index experienced a slight increase. The market is also reacting to the prospects of changing global monetary policy and awaits UK mortgage and inflation data.
Contrasting the broader market trend, precious metal miners in the FTSE gained, with gold prices reaching a six-month high. Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey’s comments on the challenges of reducing inflation also influenced market sentiment. Rightmove’s shares surged following an uplifted revenue forecast, highlighting diverse market movements amidst global economic uncertainties.
The DAX Index, currently positioned at 16004.60, is trading above both its 200-day and 50-day moving averages, at 15668.46 and 15320.57 respectively. This placement indicates a bullish trend, as the index is not only above these key moving averages but also above the main support level of 15723.01. However, it hovers just above the minor support of 15993.10, suggesting a need for cautious observation.
The proximity to the minor support level suggests some vulnerability, but the overall position above significant moving averages points to a generally positive market sentiment for the DAX Index.
James Hyerczyk is a U.S. based seasoned technical analyst and educator with over 40 years of experience in market analysis and trading, specializing in chart patterns and price movement. He is the author of two books on technical analysis and has a background in both futures and stock markets.