European Stocks stable as Anti-Coronavirus Measures Tighten

European shares stabilized on Tuesday (December 15th), after an increase in cases of Covid-19 disease forced governments to tighten control measures across the continent, negatively affecting optimism about the distribution of vaccines and hopes for a trade agreement between Britain and the European Union.

A new strain of Coronavirus was discovered in London, which may partly contribute to an increase in infection rates, forcing the government to impose the highest level of restrictions in the city.

Italian media reported that the government may decide to impose partial lockdown measures from December 24 until at least January 2.

In France, the number of cases being treated for Covid-19 in hospitals increased for a third day, while the country intends to start easing general isolation measures.

After a strong session on Monday, little changed on the European Stoxx600 index as investors consider the possibility that a shackling of economic activity could undermine any kind of recovery.

Bank stocks led the wave of losses, while auto, mining and energy stocks were the main gainers.