FX.co ★ European Markets Up, FTSE 100 Hits Longest Streak

European stocks surged on Friday, stimulated by robust US payroll figures for April and indications that China might rejuvenate trade discussions with the US. The Stoxx 50 surged by 1.9%, while the Stoxx 600 increased by 1.7%, with a notable 3% rally in technology shares. London's FTSE 100 advanced by over 1%, marking its longest record of consecutive daily gains. Shares of Shell rose 1.9%, following a surpass of Q1 profit expectations and the initiation of a $3.5 billion share buyback. Standard Chartered exceeded forecasts, fueled by strong performance in wealth management and global banking sectors, while NatWest reported a profit of £1.8 billion, surpassing expectations. Moët Hennessy announced intentions to reduce its workforce by more than 10% as part of a restructuring at LVMH’s wine and spirits division. On the economic front, Euro Area inflation remained consistent in April, increasing by 0.6% compared to the previous month and 2.2% year-on-year, aligning with March's figures.