European Shares Dip After Record Highs Amid Easing Trade Tensions

European shares edged lower on Friday after briefly reaching record highs, driven by easing U.S.-China trade tensions and positive corporate earnings that bolstered risk sentiment. The STOXX 600 index, a barometer of European equity performance, dipped 0.2% to 573.56 points as of 0902 GMT, following a robust performance supported by energy stocks.

In the backdrop of a weekly gain, sentiment was buoyed as the White House confirmed a meeting between U.S. President Trump and his Chinese counterpart. The talks aim to deescalate economic tensions with looming tariffs on Chinese imports, adding volatility to the markets.

Elsewhere, mixed corporate results influenced market movements. Sanofi's stock rose on strong earnings, while Saab and NatWest recorded notable gains. In contrast, Signify and Hiab faced declines after disappointing results. Analysts kept an eye on U.S. consumer prices due later in the day, hints of potential Federal Reserve policy shifts.