European Stocks Rise for 2nd Session

European stocks extended gains for a second consecutive session on Monday, with the Stoxx 50 rising 0.3% and the Stoxx 600 adding 0.2%.

Markets advanced in the UK, Germany and France, although Spain underperformed.

ASML Holding, Linde and L’Oréal gained between 0.8% and 1.3%, while LVMH and Siemens rose around 0.5%.

In the broader Stoxx 600, Novartis climbed 1.6% and ASML added 0.8%.

British housebuilders were among the strongest performers, with Persimmon, Barratt Redrow, Taylor Wimpey and Vistry Group surging more than 10% after the UK government said it would confirm a new equity-loan programme for first-time buyers in next month’s budget.

Banco Santander slipped 0.3%, while Roche fell more than 2%.

Fresnillo declined around 5% as weaker gold prices pressured precious-metals miners.

Oil prices remained elevated amid a US-Iran stalemate, despite reports that talks on reopening the Strait of Hormuz could continue, with investors cautious after repeated diplomatic setbacks.