Defense Industries Boost European Stocks

European stocks closed higher on Monday as investors anticipated inflation data worldwide this week, which will shape their expectations regarding interest rates. Shares in the defense sector rose to record levels amid increasing geopolitical uncertainty. The Stoxx 600 index rose by 0.1% ahead of inflation data from Germany, China, and the United States this week, which is likely to determine how high interest rates can remain. The aerospace and defense index reached a record high, increasing by 1.0%, with Leonardo shares rising by 3.1% and Melrose shares by 2.6%. The British FTSE 100 index fell by 0.1%, while the French CAC index rose by 0.1%. The German DAX index declined, influenced by a 6.1% drop in Siemens shares.