European markets are trading mixed on Friday, February 13, 2026, as selective strength in France contrasts with broader softness across regional benchmarks. After several sessions of consolidation, investor sentiment remains cautious, with profit-taking visible in eurozone blue chips and pan-European names. Currency markets are relatively stable but slightly weaker, reinforcing a measured tone during the session.

France Leads While Germany Stalls

France’s CAC 40 rises 0.33% to 8,340.56, emerging as one of the session’s stronger performers. Gains are supported by consumer-oriented stocks and select industrial names, reflecting targeted buying in areas perceived as resilient amid recent volatility.

Germany’s DAX is little changed, edging down just 0.01% to 24,852.69. Industrial and export-focused stocks show limited movement, suggesting investors remain cautious about adding cyclical exposure despite signs of stabilization elsewhere.

Eurozone Blue Chips and Pan-European Stocks Ease

The EURO STOXX 50 declines 0.40% to 6,011.29, reflecting mild profit-taking among large-cap eurozone stocks. Financials and industrials trade slightly lower, highlighting continued selectivity in investor positioning.

The Euronext 100 Index slips 0.37% to 1,794.73, signaling broader caution among multinational firms with global exposure. The move suggests that recent gains in certain segments are being reassessed as trading progresses.

The broader MSCI Europe dips 0.20% to 2,785.06, indicating softer regional participation despite France’s relative strength.

U.K. Market Holds Steady as Currencies Drift Lower

In the U.K., the FTSE 100 trades flat at 10,402.44. The index’s stability reflects balanced sector performance, with gains in defensives offsetting weakness in other areas.

Currency markets remain subdued. The Euro Index eases 0.08% to 118.64, while the British Pound Index slips 0.05% to 136.21. The modest declines suggest limited currency-driven influence on equity performance during the session.

Outlook

As the session unfolds, European markets appear to be navigating a period of consolidation marked by selective strength and modest profit-taking. Investors continue to monitor economic indicators, corporate earnings updates, and central bank commentary for direction as February progresses. Risks include uneven sector participation, sustained caution toward cyclical stocks, and potential currency volatility. At the same time, opportunities persist in markets showing relative resilience, including France, and in high-quality large-cap names with stable earnings profiles.