European stocks rise for ninth straight week, longest streak since 2012

European stocks were broadly flat on Friday, holding at record highs and on track for a ninth straight week of gains, the last streak since 2012. markets are gaining confidence in the economy, with a rate cut from the European Central Bank on the horizon. The Euro Stoxx 600 broke above 510 points for the first time, 2% above the median expectation of 16 strategists for the index to end 2024. European stock market trends are poised for a stunning second-quarter rally as markets are optimistic about potential popular monetary policy, with the Bank of England signaling that a rate cut is "in the works" and the European Central Bank's surprise rate cut also boosting stocks.