(Reuters) – European stocks fell on Thursday as investors prepared for the latest set of corporate activity data that will highlight the blow the euro zone economy has received from comprehensive public isolation measures imposed to curb the spread of the Corona virus.
The pan-European STOXX 600 index fell 0.9 percent by 0708 GMT, reversing from the strongest close in three weeks.
Investors are awaiting the publication of IHS Market’s reading of May and manufacturing activities. The numbers are expected to rebound after hitting a low in April.
Among the stocks, Amsterdam-based Altes Europe Group, a telecom and cable company, fell 7.4 percent, while announcing first-quarter core earnings worse than expected.
Lufthansa shares rose 3.8 percent in light of talks with the German government on a rescue deal worth up to 9 billion euros (9.9 billion euros), including the state obtaining a 20 percent stake.