Markets

European stocks decline amid rising tensions in Middle East

Technology and mining sectors hardest hit, followed by broader industrial goods

Bear and bull statues stand outside the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. Picture: Alex Kraus/Bloomberg

European stocks fell today, weighed down by disappointing results from ASML Holding NV and Swiss industrial conglomerate ABB Ltd, and as traders assessed escalating tensions in the Middle East.

The Stoxx Europe 600 fell 0.5 per cent by 1.06pm in London. Chip equipment firm ASML dropped as much as 5 per cent after its order intake plunged in the third quarter amid a slump in the semiconductor industry. ABB declined the most in two years ...