European Shares Edge Higher Amid Thin Pre-Session Trade

European equities advanced modestly in thin pre-session trade on February 17, 2026, as investors awaited key U.S. inflation data and central bank cues. The Stoxx Europe 600 rose 0.3% to 472.23, with miners and oil & gas sectors outperforming. Trading volumes remain subdued ahead of the U.S. CPI report due later in the day, which is expected to show a 0.3% rise in January. Analysts noted the market's cautious stance amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and uncertainty over upcoming policy decisions.