European stock markets closed mixed in Thursday trading as the Stoxx Europe 600 gained 0.09%, Germany's DAX rose 0.64%, the FTSE 100 was up 0.19%, while the the Swiss Market Index France's CAC 40 were roughly flat.
In Germany, the consumer sentiment index, published by NIQ/GfK and the Nuremberg Institute for Market Decisions, declined an estimated 0.3 point in July to -20.3, falling short of analyst expectations of -19.1, according to Bloomberg.
"After three consecutive increases, the consumer climate has thus suffered a slight setback," Rolf Burkl, a consumer expert at NIM said in a statement. "This is primarily due to the increased willingness to save, which is currently counteracting the positive impetus provided by improved income prospects."
In corporate news, oil major Shell (SHEL) said Thursday it is not actively considering a takeover of rival BP (BP), putting an end to recent speculation about a possible deal between the two energy giants. The company said it has not made any approach to BP, and no talks have taken place.
"In response to recent media speculation Shell wishes to clarify that it has not been actively considering making an offer for BP," Shell said in a statement.
Shell and BP shares gained 2.3% and 0.3%, respectively, in Thursday trading.
The UK's Competition and Markets Authority said Thursday it is investigating Boeing's anticipated acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems.
"The CMA is considering whether it is or may be the case that this transaction, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a relevant merger situation under the merger provisions of the Enterprise Act 2002 and, if so, whether the creation of that situation may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the United Kingdom for goods or services," the regulator said.
Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems did not immediately reply to requests for comment from MT Newswires.
Mining stocks surged in Thursday trading as Anglo American and Antofagasta rose 6.9% and 6% in London trading, followed by Glencore and Fresnillo, which advanced 5.5% and 4%, while ArcelorMittal gained 1.7% in Paris.