European shares retreat from record highs as mixed earnings and geopolitical tensions weigh on sentiment
The STOXX 600 index fell on Thursday as investors weighed mixed results from Airbus and Nestle. Rising geopolitical tensions also weighed on market sentiment.
Insights:
The pan-European STOXX 600 index fell 0.5% from a record close on February 19, 2026, as investors reacted to a series of mixed corporate earnings reports and updated guidance. The retreat followed a period of record highs, with market sentiment shifting as major companies across various sectors provided divergent outlooks. Airbus SE , headquartered in France 
FR, was among the most significant decliners, with its shares dropping 6.8% after the company cut its main jet production target, citing ongoing issues with suppliers such as Pratt & Whitney.
FR, was among the most significant decliners, with its shares dropping 6.8% after the company cut its main jet production target, citing ongoing issues with suppliers such as Pratt & Whitney.
