20.02.202609:22:56UTC+00European Stocks Rally to Near Record on Strong PMIs

European equities advanced on Friday, with the Euro Stoxx 50 rising 0.8% to around 6,100, hovering near a record high, and the Stoxx Europe 600 up 0.5% to 629. Sentiment improved after stronger-than-expected PMI data showed eurozone private-sector activity expanding at its fastest pace since November. Manufacturing output posted its sharpest increase since August 2025, while Germany’s factory sector returned to growth for the first time since June 2022. Markets were further reassured after ECB President Christine Lagarde told The Wall Street Journal she plans to serve out her full term, countering earlier speculation about an early exit. On the corporate side, Moncler jumped 11% after reporting a 7% increase in fourth-quarter revenue. Danone edged 0.1% lower despite beating its 2025 sales and cash flow forecasts, while Anglo American gained 1% after cutting its final dividend and moving forward with merger plans with Teck Resources.