More Losers Than Winners in Paris Today: Market Wrap-Up for February 4, 2026

• How Did European Markets Perform Today?
• Which Stocks Dragged the Paris Market Lower?
• Were There Any Bright Spots in the Market?
• What Geopolitical Developments Influenced Sentiment?
• How Did Economic Data Shape the Session?
• What’s Next for Investors?
• FAQ: Your Quick Market Questions Answered

The Paris stock exchange saw a mixed session on February 4, 2026, with slightly more decliners than advancers. The CAC 40 edged down 0.02% to 8,179.50 points, snapping a three-day winning streak. Key movers included Publicis (-9.24%) and Renault (-4.17%), while Amundi (+1.75%) hit record highs. Geopolitical news was cautiously positive, but corporate earnings and analyst downgrades dominated the day. Meanwhile, French inflation surprised to the downside, and the euro gained 0.18% against the dollar ahead of the ECB meeting.

How Did European Markets Perform Today?

European markets closed cautiously on February 4, 2026, with Amsterdam’s AEX being the outlier, dropping 1.54%. Frankfurt’s DAX 40 slipped just 0.09% to 24,775.35 points, while Paris’s CAC 40 barely moved, ending at 8,179.50 points (-0.02%). The session marked a pause after three consecutive gains for the French benchmark, which had rallied 1.42% in that period. Trading volumes were moderate as investors digested a flurry of corporate updates and analyst actions.

Which Stocks Dragged the Paris Market Lower?

The advertising giant Publicis led the losers, plunging 9.24% to €78.40—its lowest level since mid-August 2025. Despite reporting strong annual results, its 2026 organic growth guidance of 4-5% (vs. 5.6% in 2025) disappointed investors. Auto manufacturer Renault fell 4.17% after Morgan Stanley downgraded it to "underweight" and slashed its price target from €47 to €33. Luxury stocks also weighed on the index, with LVMH dropping 1.73% after HSBC cut its target price from €775 to €700.

Were There Any Bright Spots in the Market?

Absolutely. Asset manager Amundi shone with a 1.75% gain, marking its fourth straight rise to record highs. The company reported stellar annual results, including record net inflows and a new €500 million share buyback program. Over in Copenhagen, jewelry maker Pandora had surged 14.56% over two sessions before profit-taking sent it down 9.25% today—a classic "buy the rumor, sell the news" scenario tied to silver price volatility.

What Geopolitical Developments Influenced Sentiment?

Markets welcomed two positive developments: First, a U.S.-India trade deal that will slash tariffs on Indian imports from 50% to 18%. Second, easing tensions between Tehran and Washington, though oil prices still edged up slightly after a recent 5% drop. The only dampener was the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, though a House vote later today could resolve it. "Geopolitics took a backseat today, letting earnings drive the action," noted a BTCC market analyst.

How Did Economic Data Shape the Session?

Preliminary French inflation data surprised to the downside: Prices fell 0.3% monthly in January (vs. -0.1% expected), with annual inflation at just 0.3% (vs. 0.6% forecast). The INSEE attributed this to seasonal discounts on manufactured goods. Meanwhile, the euro ROSE 0.18% to $1.1812 as traders awaited Thursday’s ECB meeting. Most expect rates to hold steady, but Christine Lagarde’s press conference will be scrutinized for hints on future policy.

What’s Next for Investors?

With earnings season in full swing, analysts recommend focusing on companies with resilient guidance. The BTCC team suggests watching for ECB commentary and any shutdown resolution in the U.S. Technically, the CAC 40’s support at 8,150 held today—a bullish sign if it continues. As one trader quipped, "After today’s snooze-fest, maybe tomorrow will bring some fireworks."

FAQ: Your Quick Market Questions Answered

Why did Publicis stock crash despite good earnings?

Publicis reported strong 2025 results but forecast slower 2026 organic growth (4-5% vs. 5.6% in 2025), spooking investors about its momentum.

Is the luxury sector downturn a temporary blip?

While today’s dip reflects analyst downgrades, the sector’s 28% CAC 40 weighting means it remains pivotal. Watch for China demand signals.

How reliable are current inflation readings?

January’s drop appears seasonal (post-holiday sales). The ECB will likely look through this when setting policy.