On Tuesday the DAX slipped slightly, closing at 22,637 points as of the Xetra market close-down 0.1 % from the previous day’s close. After a weak start, the index traded largely within a red zone, staying near the breakeven line.
Market analysts cited unresolved tensions in the Middle East as a major source of uncertainty for investors worldwide, whether retail or institutional. Rumours of possible insider trading sparked by a recent tweet from the U.S. president added to the volatility, leaving many traders hesitant to make decisive moves. In this environment, only a small group appears to have more clarity than the broader investment community, making it difficult to act for either personal or client portfolios.
Lipkow of CMC Markets said most market participants are taking a cautious hold, staying on the sidelines. He added that the persistent risk of a further escalation in the Middle East remains a constant concern for investors. Meanwhile, U.S. yields kept climbing, pressuring inflationary worries tied to higher energy costs, and investors are speculating on how the regional conflict might directly affect consumption and price levels in both the United States and Europe.
The analyst also noted a deteriorating private‑credit landscape in the U.S. and fears of a new crisis cycle. Large private‑equity firms are increasingly restricting the drawdown of invested funds. Given these constraints, the DAX has little choice but to drift aimlessly amid significant volatility, a position that analysts consider a success given the short window.
Before the market adjourned, shares of Brenntag and BASF topped the performance list, while Scout 24 and SAP appeared at the bottom of the ranking.
Gas prices fell markedly. A megawatt‑hour of gas for April delivery cost €54, 5 % lower than the day before. If this level persists, consumers would be paying roughly 10‑12 cents per kWh, including ancillary costs and taxes.
Oil moved sharply higher. A barrel of Brent crudes fetched $103.70 on Tuesday afternoon around 5 p.m. German time-up 3.7 % from the previous close.
The euro weakened further on Tuesday afternoon, trading at $1.1589, or 0.8629 € per dollar.