European stocks hit a record high Friday, buoyed by defence and insurance sectors, ending the year on an optimistic note. The STOXX 600 index saw significant gains, driven by strong performances in banking and aerospace. This surge follows a week of tech-led losses, with investors now favouring European markets over U.S. tech giants amid falling interest rates.
AI stocks: Midterm elections could threaten AI trade as data center backlash grows
Public opposition to US data centers and the November midterm elections could reshape AI infrastructure investment. Increased regulatory scrutiny, rising electricity costs and construction delays