Europe midday: Stoxx gives up gains as traders assess earnings deluge
By Frank Prenesti
Date: Thursday 31 Jul 2025
(Sharecast News) - European shares were sliding into the red at midday amid another earnings dump as traders assessed the US Federal Reserve's decision to keep rates on hold as inflationary fears loomed and awaited the latest tariff news ahead of Friday's deadline to strike deals with Washington.
The pan-regional Stoxx 600 was down 0.14% at 549. Germany's DAX slipped into the red, giving up morning gains.
The US central bank kept the target range for the federal funds rate unchanged on Wednesday at between 4.25% and 4.50%, as widely expected.
"A positive start to the day in Europe, with equities gaining ground in a period that has seen news headlines coming thick and fast for traders. Yesterday's FOMC meeting provided one obvious centre point for the week ... coming against a rather predictable backdrop of criticism from (President Donald) Trump and his team," said Rostro analyst Joshua Mahony.
"While we saw two dissenters, the fact that we continue to see seven FOMC members reiterate the need for patience highlights the fact that Trump's push for additional easing may not be as simple as replacing the Chair."
"The central bank theme has also seen the Bank of Canada and Japan hold rates, signalling the potential for an economic hit thanks to Trump's trade war tariffs. With Korea now striking a deal that replicates the Japanese 15% tariff rate, there is a feeling that we will continue to see countries surrender to similar deals in a bid to avoid the higher rates due to come in to play tomorrow."
Pharma company ArgenX led the risers, with shares up almost 11% after results beat expectations. Rentokil and UK aerospace company Rolls-Royce also posted similar gains.
On the downside, French hotel group Accor slumped despite better-than-expected results. Paper and packaging giant Mondi also fell after warning of a tough second half ahead and weaker interim earnings.
Anheuser-Busch InBev slumped after the alcoholic beverage giant reported lower volumes, dragged back by weak sales in China and Brazil.
French lottery operator FDJ tanked on worried about the impact of new tax regulations.
Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com
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