The German stock market opened Monday with gains, driven by speculation surrounding potential trade tariffs. Around 9:30 AM local time, the leading DAX index was calculated at approximately 23,865 points, marking a 0.3 percent increase from Friday’s closing level.
Commerzbank, Siemens Energy and MTU Aero Engines were among the top performers, while Siemens Healthineers, Merck and Sartorius concluded the early trading session with modest losses.
Market analysts attribute the initial volatility to ongoing concerns regarding tariffs. Thomas Altmann of QC Partners noted that the global trading community is currently analyzing which entities will be targeted by a recent series of trade threat letters reportedly issued by the US President. There is concern that the European Union may be among those receiving these communications and that implementing such tariffs would impose a significant burden on export-dependent European economies.
Trading activity is expected to increase following the return of the US markets after a holiday break on Friday. Analysts pointed out that the volume of shares traded on the DAX on Friday was the lowest seen since December 9th, 2022, a shortened trading day at the end of the prior financial year. The looming threat of tariffs continues to present challenges for the DAX.
The Euro weakened slightly early Monday, trading at $1.1753, with the US Dollar fetching €0.8508.
Meanwhile, oil prices have declined. Brent crude traded at $68.15 per barrel around 9:00 AM local time, representing a decrease of 15 cents, or 0.2 percent, compared to the previous day’s closing price.
