30 AM.. This level represented a 0.5% increase compared to the closing value of the previous trading day. Leading gains within the index were shares of SAP, Rheinmetall and MTU, while Zalando, BASF and Siemens showed the largest declines.
Investor attention is currently focused on the upcoming interest rate decision by the U.S. Federal Reserve, scheduled for release later in the day. Market analysts acknowledge the potential for volatility, with one commentator noting the day’s true direction may not be apparent until the evening’s announcement.
A rate reduction is widely anticipated and anything deviating from a 25 basis point decrease would be considered a significant surprise. More crucial than the immediate rate decision itself, according to experts, is the guidance provided regarding the future course of monetary policy. Current market expectations are centered around two further rate cuts this year and three in the subsequent year. A failure to meet those expectations could expose stock markets to potential losses.
The Euro weakened slightly against the U.S. dollar Wednesday morning, trading at $1.1843, with the dollar costing €0.8444.
Crude oil prices also declined. Brent North Sea crude was trading at $68.30 per barrel around 9:00 AM local time, a decrease of 17 cents or 0.3% compared to the closing price of the previous trading day.