The DAX traded near record highs at approximately 25,260 on Monday, underpinned by strength in defense stocks as investors weighed geopolitical risks, including unrest in Iran and concerns about US central bank independence. The US administration has opened an investigation into the Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell over the $2.5 billion renovation of its Washington headquarters, marking an unprecedented escalation in President Donald Trump’s clash with the central bank over interest rates. Meanwhile, President Trump said he was considering “very strong” military actions in Iran as rights groups claim more than 500 have been killed in country-wide protests. In Europe, several countries, including Germany and the UK, are reportedly exploring the creation of a joint NATO mission to safeguard Greenland and the Arctic region. On equities, Renk (1.6%), Rheinmetall (1.5%) and Hensoldt (1.5%) were in demand. Zalando, Fresenius Se & Co and Symrise also advanced firmly.
