Europe stocks stage world-beating rally as trade war backfires

From Yahoo Finance: 2025-06-01 03:00:00

Europe’s equities are outperforming global markets, with 8 of the world’s top 10 stock markets in Europe, including Germany’s DAX Index up over 30%. The region is thriving on strong corporate earnings, attractive valuations, and fiscal spending plans, while the US struggles with trade wars and fiscal debt concerns.

Investors are shifting away from US assets to Europe, with UBS Group AG analysts predicting €1.2 trillion to flow into European stock markets over the next five years. Berlin’s infrastructure and defense spending proposal and Citigroup Inc. economists foresee growth boosts across the euro area by the second half of 2026.

Despite a rebound in May, the S&P 500 lags behind, gaining only 0.5% in 2025 compared to the MSCI All-Country World Index. European markets, particularly smaller ones like Slovenia and Poland, dominate the leader boards this year, showing resilience to US economic concerns.

European equities are favored over US stocks due to contained inflation, visible economic stability, and strong corporate earnings. Analysts predict continued outperformance and growth in the Stoxx 600, with expectations of earnings growth next year. However, global trade uncertainties remain a key risk for the region’s markets.

Overall, European markets are experiencing a resurgence as investors turn towards the region for better returns and stability, while the US grapples with economic challenges and trade uncertainties. The future looks bright for European equities, with analysts and investors optimistic about continued growth and outperformance.

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