Investors may turn to German equities on Thursday following the Federal Reserve's expected rate hike. The X-Dax, an off-exchange indicator for the Dax, showed a 0.4% increase to 25,641 points before trading began.
The Fed's determination to combat inflation, following its first rate hike since 2023, has calmed markets. Michael Heise, Chief Economist at HQ Trust, commented that the Fed is defending its credibility, with further rate hikes likely in October or December at the latest. Market analyst Jochen Stanzl from Consorsbank noted that the Fed's demonstration of political independence is well-received among investors.
Industries like Bilfinger are struggling with weak demand due to the prolonged conflict in the Middle East. The company revised its full-year outlook downward and implemented a cost-cutting program. A trader described it as a bitter earnings warning, leading to an 8% drop in Bilfinger's stock price on Tradegate.
Chemical company Wacker has adjusted its growth targets due to the global economic situation. The company no longer aims for a revenue of around 10 billion euros by 2030 and expects an operating margin (Ebitda) of around 15% instead of more than 20%. A trader views this as realistic and expects a positive surprise in the third quarter of 2026. Wacker's shares rose by 1.7% on Tradegate.
Energy provider RWE has increased its stake in transmission network operator Amprion as expected, raising its effective share to 58%. RWE's shares showed little reaction on Tradegate.
