Paris Markets Navigate Quiet Start Amid Global Economic Signals
Parisian stocks are poised for a subdued opening, reflecting a broader trend of cautious trading across global markets. The CAC 40 is expected to see limited movement as Wall Street returns from a holiday weekend and many Asian markets remain closed for the Lunar New Year celebrations, which continue until March 3rd.
Key Economic Data on the Horizon
Investors are bracing for a week packed with crucial economic releases. Wednesday will see the release of the Federal Reserve’s meeting minutes, offering insights into the central bank’s monetary policy outlook. Later in the week, the fourth-quarter GDP figures and additional inflation data will be closely watched on Friday. These indicators will be pivotal in shaping market sentiment.
Empire State Manufacturing Index & European Data
Today, the focus will be on the New York Fed’s Empire State manufacturing index, released at 2:30 PM. European economic data due today includes final German consumer price index figures, UK employment numbers, and the ZEW German economic sentiment index. These releases will provide a snapshot of the health of the European economy.
Corporate Earnings Season Continues
The corporate earnings season continues to unfold, with several major French companies scheduled to report their results. Carrefour, M6, Emeis, Euronext, Orange, and Airbus are all expected to release their earnings reports by the end of the week. These reports will be scrutinized for insights into company performance and future outlooks.
Currency and Commodity Markets
As of this morning, the euro-dollar parity stands at 1.1838 $. Brent crude oil is trading at 68.17 $ per barrel, while the price of gold is 4,907 $ per ounce. These fluctuations in currency and commodity markets can influence investor decisions and overall market dynamics.
Stock Movements & Corporate News
Eiffage Expands with Acquisition
Eiffage has announced the acquisition of Claus Heinemann Elektroanlagen, a German company specializing in electrical engineering and building services. This acquisition, through its subsidiary Salvia, will preserve all 301 jobs at the acquired company.
Vicat Reports Revenue Growth
Vicat reported consolidated revenue of 3.854 billion euros, a 3.3% increase on a like-for-like basis. The company saw accelerated growth throughout the year, with an 8.1% increase in the fourth quarter of 2025. EBITDA reached 771 million euros, up 3.7% on a like-for-like basis.
Sensorion Leadership Change
Nawal Ouzren has stepped down as CEO of Sensorion for personal reasons. Amit Munshi, currently Chairman of the Board, will serve as interim CEO.
ADP Reports Passenger Traffic Increase
Groupe ADP reported a 3.5% increase in passenger traffic in January 2026, reaching 7.8 million passengers. Paris-CDG saw a slight increase, while Paris-Orly experienced a more significant 10.1% rise.
Figeac Aéro Secures New Contract
Figeac Aéro has secured a contract with Safran Aircraft Engines for a metal structural part for the M88 engine, used in the Rafale fighter jet. Deliveries are expected to begin during the 2026-2027 fiscal year.
Analyst Recommendations
Several analyst firms have issued updated recommendations. Deutsche Bank has raised its price target for BNP Paribas to 96 euros (from 92 euros) and for Ipsen to 170 euros (from 155 euros), maintaining a ‘hold’ rating on both. They also increased their target for Société Générale to 78 euros (from 75 euros) with a ‘buy’ rating. RBC Capital initiated coverage of AXA with a ‘outperform’ rating and a 48 euro target. Citigroup raised its target for Safran to 342 euros (from 275 euros) with a ‘neutral’ rating. JP Morgan increased its valuation of Safran to 400 euros (from 375 euros) with a ‘overweight’ rating. TD Cowen raised its target for TotalEnergies to 66 euros (from 60 euros) with a ‘hold’ rating, while HSBC adjusted its target for TotalEnergies to 63 euros (from 60 euros) with a ‘hold’ rating.
Other Market News
NetMedia Group has launched a capital increase of 513.7 kE. Vallourec has signed a protocol agreement with Baker Hughes. Acheter-Louer.fr’s verdict is scheduled for March 10th. GTT has received an order from Jiangnan shipyard. Voltalia has secured a contract to build a solar power plant in Ireland. Spie is strengthening its AI expertise in Germany.
FAQ
Q: What is the current outlook for the CAC 40?
A: The CAC 40 is expected to have a quiet start, with limited trading volume due to holidays in Asia and the US.
Q: What key economic data will be released this week?
A: Key releases include the Fed minutes, Q4 GDP, inflation data, and the Empire State manufacturing index.
Q: Which companies are reporting earnings this week?
A: Carrefour, M6, Emeis, Euronext, Orange, and Airbus are among the companies reporting earnings.
Q: What is the current euro-dollar exchange rate?
A: The current exchange rate is 1.1838 $.
