European Stocks Reach 3-Week High Driven by Financial Sector; Rubis Sees Gains

Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst

Source: Reuters

Updated: Sep 15 2025

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Source: Reuters

European Market Performance: European shares reached a three-week high, driven by financial stocks ahead of key central bank meetings, with the pan-European STOXX 600 up 0.5% and the CAC 40 index rising 1.2% despite a Fitch rating downgrade for France.
Central Bank Expectations: Market optimism is fueled by expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve will implement a 25-basis-point interest rate cut in response to signs of labor market weakness, influencing global financial sentiment.
Corporate Developments: Rubis shares surged 7.2% following reports of bids from CVC Capital Partners and Trafigura, while Rheinmetall's stock rose 2.1% after announcing an acquisition, contributing to gains in the defense sector.
Sector Movements: Offshore wind developer Orsted's shares fell 2.4% due to a significant discount on a rights issue, while Sainsbury's stock increased by 5.1% after ending talks with JD.com regarding the sale of Argos.

About the author

Emily J. Thompson

Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.