CAC 40 slides as Brent crude nears $100 and borrowing costs hit 17-year highs

Paris equities face a dual squeeze from surging energy prices and rising yields, extending the week's selling pressure despite pockets of corporate strength.

By Handelsavisen Newsroom · Automated 2026-07-23 12:22 UTC · 1 min read

The CAC 40 index retreated in midday trading on Thursday, dragged down by a confluence of rising energy costs and steepening borrowing costs.

Brent crude oil prices approached the $100 per barrel threshold, reigniting supply concerns linked to renewed hostilities in the Middle East.

Simultaneously, bond yields climbed to their highest levels since 2009, tightening financial conditions for equity investors.

The market's decline persisted despite positive earnings reports from several listed companies, indicating that macroeconomic headwinds are currently overpowering corporate fundamentals.

The technology sector, which had shown signs of recovery earlier in the week, faced renewed selling pressure as higher discount rates weighed on growth valuations.

Investors appear to be rotating out of risk assets amid uncertainty over the duration of geopolitical tensions and their impact on inflation.