AEX price loses slightly due to a wait-and-see mood, tech and IMCD under pressure

The AEX price recorded a small decline on Friday afternoon, while investors took a pause after the strong week. Around 2:00 PM the index is just below 938 points. Chip stocks and IMCD are under pressure, while Prosus and ING provide support. Foreign news about interest rates and macro figures influences sentiment.

AEX price slightly lower, chip funds and IMCD in decline

Around lunch, the AEX slides down with a loss of approximately 0.14 percent at 938.72 points. Investors seem to be taking it easy after the gains of the previous days, supported by better-than-expected US inflation figures.

Among the main funds, IMCD leads the decliners with a loss of 2.2 percent. Chip shares ASMI and BESI both fell approximately 2 percent, after their strong progress earlier this week. ArcelorMittal loses almost 1.9 percent.

On the positive side, Prosus attracts attention with a plus of 1.2 percent. ING is also up by 0.9 percent. In the Midkap, Arcadis is under pressure after a reduction in advice, which means a loss of more than 2 percent.

Global interest rates and macro strengthen cautious sentiment

In Japan, the Bank of Japan raised interest rates for the second time this year, to 0.75 percent, the highest level in almost thirty years. The decision comes amid mild inflationary pressures and sluggish economic growth. The Nikkei index reacts positively with an increase of 1.3 percent.

The Dutch Central Bank (DNB) reports that the Dutch economy is growing surprisingly stronger than expected, with an estimate update to 1.7 percent. At the same time, DNB warns that the budget policy is too loose and could further fuel inflation. This balance between power and risk plays a role in the risk appetite of investors.

US macro data also continues to guide the markets. Lower inflation and discussion about interest rate increases by the Fed could further influence the stock markets, especially towards the end of 2025 and early 2026.

Companies and sector news influence local markets

At company level, Nike stands out: despite better results, its share is falling after disappointing sales in China and higher import tariffs. This illustrates how global geopolitical and trade factors impact stock prices.

In addition, emerging markets are leading the way this year with double-digit returns, forcing investors to look at alternative growth locations. This trend contrasts with the cautious sentiment on European stock markets.