London - European stocks fell in a broad decline as
geopolitical concerns weighed on traders as they returned to markets after the
Easter holiday.
The Stoxx Europe 600 Index slipped 0.9 percent at 11:36 a.m.
in London. All 19 industry groups fell, with miners leading declines as
iron-ore prices tumbled.
The exporter-heavy FTSE 100 Index tumbled 1.3 percent,
weighed down by resource shares and a recovery in the pound after UK Prime
Minister Theresa May called a general election in June.
Britain’s snap election adds to political risks in Europe.
Uncertainty about the outcome of the French presidential vote, as well as
concerns about Syria and North Korea have weighed on equities in recent
sessions.
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ArcelorMittal, Anglo American Plc and Rio Tinto Group led
losses among miners on Tuesday after Citigroup Inc. said it’s bearish on the
outlook for iron ore, spurring further declines in contracts on the raw
material. Energy producers, construction companies and banks were also among
the worst performers in the Stoxx 600.
Pandora A/S slumped 8.3 percent after Carnegie downgraded
the stock to hold, saying a quarterly dealer survey indicated a visible
deterioration in momentum. The earnings season will pick up pace later this
week, with reports due from companies including Unilever and ABB Ltd.
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