Major stock indices in Europe trading mixed

European stocks traded mostly in the red zone correcting after strong growth in the previous session. Investors analyzed corporate reports and follow the fluctuations in the currency markets.

Certain influence had statistical data for the euro area. The ECB said that the euro zone's money supply increased significantly in December, accelerating relative to November and exceeded the estimates of experts. At the same time, private sector credit growth also improved, confirming expectations. December monetary aggregate M3 grew by 5.0 percent year on year, after increasing by 4.8 percent in November. Analysts had expected growth to accelerate to 4.9 per cent. In addition, the report showed that, on average over the past three months (to December) M3 monetary aggregate grew by 4.8 per cent, as in the previous 3-month period. Private sector credit volume increased by 2.5% in December after rising 2.4% in November. Adjusted lending to the private sector rose in December by 2.3% compared to 2.2% in November. The annual rate of growth in adjusted lending to households was 2.0% compared to 1.9% in November. Last change coincided with the forecast. At the same time, lending to non-financial corporations expanded by 2.3% compared with an increase of 2.1% in November.

Market participants are also awaiting the outcome of the talks between US President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Theresa May. Leaders of the two countries should discuss a trade agreement between the United States and Britain. May stated that some of the barriers in trade between the United Kingdom and the United States may be withdrawn. In the case of the United States, with which Britain has close political and economic relations, there is a clear understanding and a desire to conclude an agreement on free trade.

The composite index of the largest companies in the region Stoxx Europe 600 was down 0.45%, to 365.84. However, the index is ready to complete the current week with an increase of 0.90%. The biggest decline demonstrates the banking sector - about 1%.

The capitalization of the Italian bank UniCredit fell 4.4% after the Italian media said that the vice-chairman confirmed that the bank did not sell its stake in Mediobanca. The lender will also launch its capital increase earlier than planned, on February 6, according to reports.

Wartsila shares - Finnish engineering company - rose by 7.2%, following statements on a higher than expected amount of profit and new orders in the last quarter.

At the moment:

FTSE 100 +13.03 7174.52 + 0.18%

DAX -30.43 11818.20 -0.26%

CAC 40 4842.56 -24.68 -0.51%