Stocks Mixed as War Hits Eurozone Mood

UK mortgage approvals rise, M4 money supply flips to net inflows, but Middle East tensions weigh on markets

Mar. 30, 2026 at 11:05am

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Stock prices in London were mostly higher midday on Monday, following news that UK mortgage approvals rose more than expected and the M4 money supply flipped to net inflows. However, investors remain on alert for developments in the Iran war, which is weighing on the eurozone economic sentiment.

Why it matters

The mixed performance of UK and European stocks reflects the complex economic landscape, with positive domestic data offset by geopolitical concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Investors are closely watching the situation in the region, as it has the potential to disrupt global energy supplies and financial markets.

The details

Net mortgage approvals for house purchases in the UK increased to 62,600 in February from a revised 60,200 in January, surpassing consensus expectations. The M4 money supply, which measures all sterling in circulation, also increased 0.6% month-on-month in February, beating expectations. Meanwhile, Israel and Iran exchanged more missile fire, raising concerns that the US might escalate the conflict by launching ground raids against Iranian Gulf islands.

  • UK mortgage approvals data released on March 30, 2026.
  • M4 money supply data released on March 30, 2026.
  • Israel and Iran exchanged missile fire on March 30, 2026.

The players

FTSE 100

The benchmark stock market index of the London Stock Exchange, comprising the 100 largest publicly traded companies in the UK.

FTSE 250

A stock market index of the 250 largest companies listed on the London Stock Exchange, after the FTSE 100.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, who has made comments about seizing Iranian oil and the country's Kharg Island export hub.

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What they’re saying

“Market nervousness around the situation in the Middle East continues to ratchet up as the Iran conflict enters a fifth week. Comments from President Trump about seizing Iranian oil and the country's Kharg Island export hub, a build-up of US troops and the involvement of Tehran-backed Houthis in the war all create the impression of a conflict that is escalating rather than drawing to a close.”

— Danni Hewson, Head of Financial Analysis, AJ Bell

What’s next

Investors will continue to monitor the situation in the Middle East, as further escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran could have significant implications for global energy markets and financial stability.

The takeaway

The mixed performance of UK and European stocks highlights the complex economic landscape, with positive domestic data offset by geopolitical concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Investors remain on high alert for developments that could disrupt global energy supplies and financial markets.