Europe: Stocks steady on easing Ukraine fears

[LONDON] European stock markets steadied at the open Tuesday on hopes that Ukraine and Russia will avoid a full-blown conflict.

London's benchmark FTSE 100 index edged up 0.1 per cent to 7,539.83 points.

In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX index was flat at 15,110.75 points as was the Paris CAC 40 at 6,853.69.

Europe's main markets had closed down about 2.0 per cent on Monday on fears that Russia would shortly invade neighbouring Ukraine.

"There is a certain relief in the Ukraine-Russia crisis as the two sides seem willing to continue their diplomatic efforts to avoid a military action," noted Swissquote senior analyst Ipek Ozkardeskaya.

AFP