European shares continue to decline

European shares fell at the open on Friday after major central bank actions during the week, including signals from the Federal Reserve that it will continue to raise interest rates, while Credit Suisse shares fell after asking for money from investors.

The pan-European Stoxx 600 index was down 0.2 percent by 0716 GMT, hovering at a 20-month low.

Interest rates were raised sharply during the week, as the Federal Reserve announced its third consecutive increase of 75 basis points on Wednesday and Switzerland exited the era of negative interest rates on Thursday, deciding its first hike in 15 years.

Bank shares in Europe fell 0.9 percent. Credit Suisse shares fell 6.4%, after an appeal for fresh cash from investors, according to two people familiar with the matter, for the fourth time in nearly seven years. This came as the banking company is trying to overhaul its investment bank.