Belgian equity markets ended the trading session in positive territory, with the BEL 20 index rising 0.90% at the close. Broad-based strength was concentrated in the Utilities, Consumer Services and Healthcare sectors, which powered the advance in late trade.
Among individual constituents, Azelis Corporate Services NV (EBR:AZE) posted the largest gain on the BEL 20, climbing 6.24% or 0.52 points to finish at 8.77. Elia (EBR:ELI) also contributed to the upbeat tone, adding 3.32% or 4.20 points to close at 130.80. Montea C.V.A. (EBR:MONTE) was higher as well, up 2.52% or 1.60 points to end the session at 65.10.
On the downside, D'Ieteren NV (EBR:IETB) recorded the steepest fall among the index members, sliding 1.64% or 2.60 points to trade at 155.80 at the close. By contrast, Ackermans & Van Haaren NV (EBR:ACKB) ticked up 0.08% or 0.20 points to finish at 260.60, while Syensqo SA (EBR:SYENS) gained 0.14% or 0.07 points to close at 49.07.
Market breadth in Brussels was tilted toward advancers: rising issues outnumbered decliners by 58 to 36, and 13 stocks finished unchanged.
Commodities trading showed notable moves alongside equities. Gold futures for June delivery increased 1.00% or 45.04 to $4,569.34 a troy ounce. Oil prices advanced as well: crude oil for May delivery rose 3.68% or 3.67 to $103.31 a barrel, while the June Brent contract gained 2.44% or 2.57 to trade at $107.89 a barrel.
Foreign exchange markets also recorded shifts during the session. EUR/USD was down 0.50% at 1.15, while EUR/GBP was unchanged at 0.87, a move recorded as 0.02%. The US Dollar Index Futures was up 0.39% at 100.37.
The session's outcomes left sectors such as utilities, consumer services and healthcare as relative outperformers on the Belgian market, while individual stock movements highlighted a mix of strong winners and isolated laggards. Commodity and currency volatility were additional elements market participants observed as the session concluded.