The AEX index on the Amsterdam stock exchange closed slightly higher on Friday. Investors remained concerned about the war with Iran, which has now been underway for almost two weeks. Oil prices continued to rise amid concerns about potential supply disruptions from the Middle East.
US President Donald Trump again threatened Iran’s leaders on Friday. On Truth Social, he said the United States has “unmatched firepower, unlimited ammunition and oceans of time”. Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said during a press conference that Iran’s new leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is wounded and likely disfigured.
The AEX index ended 0.1 per cent higher at 1001.66 points. Meanwhile, the MidKap index fell 1.2 per cent to 974.38 points. A day earlier, the Amsterdam market had already recorded small losses. Across Europe, stock markets in Frankfurt, Paris and London fell by as much as 0.9 per cent.
Chip equipment supplier Besi was the biggest gainer in the AEX, rising 5.6 per cent after Reuters reported that several parties are interested in acquiring the company. US chip equipment maker Lam Research is one of the interested bidders. Applied Materials is also considering a takeover of the Duiven-based firm and already holds a 9 per cent stake, making it Besi’s largest shareholder.
Sector peers ASMI fell 3.1 per cent, and ASML slipped 0.1 per cent. Steel group ArcelorMittal was the biggest loser among the main stocks, dropping 4.3 per cent.
Iran has said it will continue to close the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Brent crude rose 1.2 per cent to 101.71 dollars per barrel. US crude increased 1.3 per cent to 96.97 dollars per barrel. Higher oil prices helped lift oil and gas company Shell by 1.1 per cent.
Sif fell 5 per cent, giving up earlier gains. The foundation specialist said it met its expectations for 2025 and repeated its outlook for this year. According to chief executive Fred van Beers, the recent developments in the Middle East and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz highlight the need for Europe to speed up efforts to achieve energy independence.
Sif also announced that Koen Bogers, former head of Stedin, will succeed Van Beers as chief executive on 1 August.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
