European stocks are falling as investors await more results

European stocks fell on Thursday after the mixed results of a number of companies listed on the Wall Street Stock Exchange, while investors await more economic data from the euro zone and corporate results to assess the strength of the region.

The European Stoxx 600 index fell 0.2 percent, and utilities and auto companies led the main index to decline, after falling 1.2 percent and 2.1 percent, respectively.

But banking stocks rose 1.0 percent, limiting losses.

Investors are awaiting consumer confidence data, due at 1400 GMT, which is expected to show a slight improvement in consumers’ expectations of economic conditions in the region in April compared to last month.

In terms of earnings, Sartorius AG shares declined. 11 percent after the Franco-German company specializing in the manufacture of laboratory equipment announced a decrease in sales revenue and profits in the first quarter of 2023.

AB Volvo shares rose 1 percent after the truck maker raised its forecast for the main heavy-duty truck markets in Europe and North America this year on Thursday.

German producer prices rose less than expected in March. Industrial producer prices rose 7.5 percent year-on-year, compared to a 9.8 percent rise in a Reuters poll.