European equity markets showed a lack of clear direction on Wednesday, struggling to recover from a three-day losing streak. Investor sentiment remained subdued, weighed down by fresh tariff anxieties and underwhelming corporate results from names like ASML Holding NV and Renault SA.

Adding to the cautious tone was data showing an unexpected rise in U.K. inflation last month. Consumer prices in Britain climbed 3.6% year-on-year in June, up from 3.4% in May, marking the highest inflation reading since January 2024. The uptick was largely attributed to increased transport and food costs.

Despite the broader uncertainty, Germany’s DAX edged up 0.5%, and London’s FTSE 100 rose by 0.3%. France’s CAC 40, however, remained mostly unchanged.

In stock-specific action:

• Kenmare Resources (LSE:KMR) fell sharply after the company reiterated that it remains on course to meet its full-year output and cost targets.
• Stellantis (BIT:STLAM) shares declined after the automaker scrapped its hydrogen fuel cell project and canceled plans to launch a hydrogen-powered vehicle line this year. The decision was linked to infrastructure limitations and a lack of consumer incentives.
• ASML Holding (EU:ASML) dropped steeply after warning that ongoing U.S. trade policy uncertainties could prevent it from achieving growth in 2026.
• AstraZeneca (LSE:AZN) also moved lower as its experimental treatment for a rare blood plasma disorder failed in late-stage testing.
• Renault (EU:RNO) shares slumped after the automaker cut its 2025 outlook and announced a change in leadership with the appointment of an interim CEO.

However, there were bright spots:

• Richemont (TG:RITN) traded higher after the luxury goods group posted stronger-than-expected revenue for its fiscal first quarter.
• Antofagasta (LSE:ANTO) gained after the Chilean miner reported an 11% year-over-year increase in copper production for the first half of 2025.

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