Record high at European stock markets! Technology stocks on the rise

European equities advanced, with the STOXX 600 rising 0.4% to approach a record high, as strong corporate earnings and a recovery in the artificial intelligence sector lifted technology shares. The gains came even as hotter-than-expected U.S. inflation data reinforced the case for Federal Reserve interest-rate hikes. Investors are now focused on upcoming remarks from European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde for signals on the policy path. The session highlights the tension between upbeat corporate fundamentals and persistent inflation pressures that could keep central banks tightening.