The Paris Bourse is down nearly 0.3% this morning, around 7930 points, as investors take note of several statistics concerning France.

According to Insee's CVS-CJO data, French manufacturing output fell in January 2024 (-1.6% after +0.5% in December 2023) and in total industry (-1.1% after +0.4%).

In addition, the HCOB composite PMI index of overall activity reached its highest level for nine months, rising from 44.6 in January to 48.1 in February, highlighting signs of recovery in the French economy.

In the eurozone, the HCOB composite PMI index remained in contraction territory (i.e. below 50). Nevertheless, it rose from 47.9 in January to 49.2 in February, reaching its highest level in eight months and indicating that global activity is moving closer to stabilization.

The markets are now awaiting the week's two major events: the European Central Bank (ECB) meeting on Thursday and the US employment report on Friday.

Also to be followed this afternoon is the US ISM index, which, according to consensus, should show no notable change in trend for February.

The analysts at Oddo BHF forecast that "the ISM is expected to be relatively stable, pointing once again to positive growth, albeit weaker than normal".

Investors will also continue to keep an eye on political news in the United States, with tomorrow's primaries in some 15 states, a crucial day known as "Super Tuesday".

The victories of Joe Biden and Donald Trump are widely expected in their respective camps, which means that the two candidates should logically meet again in the presidential election scheduled for November 5.
In news from French companies, Bolloré announces the payment, as of March 11, of the additional price of 0.25 euro per Bolloré share sold under its simplified tender offer for its own shares, which closed on May 30.

For 2023, Thales reports a 9% decline in net income (Group share) to 1.02 billion euros, due to an exceptional charge related to pension commitments in the UK, but an increase in adjusted net income (Group share) of 14% to 1.77 billion euros.

Following discussions in recent weeks with the French State, Eramet has reached an agreement on the treatment of SLN's existing debt, which will neutralize the weight of this debt in the Group's consolidated accounts.

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