Global markets show mixed performance amid economic growth

Global stock markets showed mixed performance on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. European markets faced hesitation due to expectations that the European Central Bank will maintain restrictive monetary policies and political uncertainties in Germany. While the CAC 40 remained stable, the Stoxx Europe 600 and FTSE 100 saw marginal gains, and the DAX 40 and FTSE MIB 30 experienced slight declines.

In France, the private sector PMI composite index rose significantly to 51.2 in September, up from 48.5 in August, marking a two-year high. The Eurozone composite PMI also reached a 41-month peak of 53.1. However, this economic resilience has created a paradox where strong growth may lead central banks to keep interest rates elevated.

In the United States, Wall Street saw declines in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq. Despite this, U.S. economic activity accelerated, with the composite index reaching 58.4, its highest level in over five years. Markets are closely watching upcoming diplomatic developments, including a scheduled meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, and ongoing discussions regarding Iran.

In corporate news, BNP Paribas reaffirmed its ambition to increase earnings per share by more than 10% annually between 2025 and 2028.