European stock markets were little changed on Wednesday as escalating tensions between Iran and the United States overshadowed strong corporate earnings.
The pan-European STOXX 600 index was broadly flat at 641.83 points by 08:24 GMT, with most sectors trading in negative territory.
Investors continued to assess quarterly earnings and company outlooks while monitoring developments in the Middle East, where rising geopolitical risks have pushed oil prices to around $85 a barrel amid concerns over disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
"While there is some good earnings news and some positive news for some stocks in Europe, the bigger picture is that we may be a little bit more defensive just because of geopolitical risk once again," said Michael Metcalfe, Head of Macro Strategy at State Street.
Market participants remain focused on the potential economic impact of the escalating conflict and its implications for global energy supplies and financial markets.
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