European Markets Close Higher Amid Positive Economic Signals

European markets experienced a mostly positive close on Tuesday, buoyed by encouraging German economic sentiment and robust corporate earnings. The ZEW index highlighted a significant uplift in economic confidence within Germany for May, contrasting with a slight increase in UK unemployment to 4.5% during the first quarter.

Corporate Highlights and Economic Outlook

Bayer AG reported steady sales at €13.7 billion for its first quarter, despite a 35% drop in net income to €1.3 billion. The firm reaffirmed its full-year projections, as market participants eagerly await updates from the upcoming Istanbul discussions, which may shed light on the Ukraine conflict's trajectory.

Market Performances and Currency Movements

The DAX edged up by 0.38%, with Volkswagen AG leading the charge with a 3.76% leap. Similarly, the EURO STOXX 50 and CAC 40 advanced by 0.43% and 0.30%, respectively, with Stellantis NV surging 4.44%. The FTSE 100 remained unchanged. In currency markets, both the euro and the pound appreciated by 0.76% against the US dollar, trading at $1.11720 and $1.32769 by 5:30 pm CET.