European pan‑market Stoxx 600 fell 1.5% as Germany’s DAX dropped 2.1%, France’s CAC 40 slid 1.6% and the UK FTSE 100 fell 1.8% amid UK political uncertainty and Iran conflict concerns.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces a leadership challenge after a Labour MP’s vacancy opens a possible path for Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, with Reform UK expected to contest the by‑election.
US President Donald Trump wrapped up a two‑day Beijing visit, announcing Chinese commitments to purchase Boeing aircraft, jet engines and agricultural products, while flagging future energy‑trade cooperation.
Corporate updates: Volkswagen labour leaders pledged no plant closures in Germany; Stellantis and Dongfeng will co‑produce Jeep and Peugeot in China from 2027 with over $1.2 bn investment; Unipol’s Q1 net profit rose 15.4% to €329 million.