European Markets See Modest Rebound at Start of a Challenging Month

European indexes experienced a modest rebound at the opening of a month that could put markets to the test as they hover near all-time highs. The European Stoxx 600 edged up 0.2%, trading with a defensive tone. Defense stocks were among the gainers after the Financial Times reported that Europe is drawing up detailed plans for potential post-conflict deployments in Ukraine. Bae Systems advanced 1.88%, Rheinmetall gained 2.6%, and Leonardo climbed 2.77%. Among the major regional indexes, Frankfurt was the best performer, rising 0.35%. Milan also gained 0.35%, while London was up 0.15% and Paris was little changed, inching up just 0.09%.