Paris Stock Exchange Ends 2024 as Europe's Worst Performer
Political instability and investor uncertainty weigh heavily on the CAC 40, marking its first annual decline since 2020.
- The CAC 40 index fell by approximately 3% in 2024, making it the only major European stock market to post an annual loss.
- Political uncertainty following the French government's dissolution in June significantly eroded investor confidence.
- Other European stock markets, including London, Frankfurt, and Milan, saw strong gains ranging from 4.7% to 20% over the year.
- The U.S. markets, buoyed by economic optimism and deregulatory policies, also outperformed Paris with double-digit growth.
- French market performance was further hindered by concerns over fiscal policies and a perceived lack of stability compared to international counterparts.