European stocks rose today, Tuesday, supported by gains in the mining sector after hopes stemming from positive forecasts for the Chinese economy led to increased metal prices. The European "Stoxx 600" index climbed by 0.5%, ending a streak of six consecutive losses. Mining companies topped the gains in the "Stoxx 600" index, with the sector index rising by 1.4% as gold and other metal prices increased. The European index also received a significant boost from the financial sector, led by gains from companies focused on China, including the insurance firm "Prudential."