Bel20 records best day in nearly a year as markets rally

The Brussels stock market enjoyed its strongest day in almost a year on Wednesday, as growing hopes of an end to the conflict between the United States and Iran lifted investor confidence.

The Bel20 index surged by 2.9% to close at 5,220 points, marking its best performance since April 2025. The rally followed comments from Donald Trump suggesting a possible de-escalation in the Middle East conflict.

Markets across Europe also rose sharply, with the Euro Stoxx 50 gaining nearly 3%. Falling oil prices and easing bond yields further supported the positive mood among investors.

In Brussels, gains were widespread: 19 of the 20 companies in the Bel20 closed higher. Several posted increases of more than 3%. Banking group KBC Group led the rise, jumping over 5%. Logistics property firm WDP also performed strongly.

On the broader market, pharmaceutical company Hyloris Pharmaceuticals climbed nearly 11%, while imaging firm Agfa-Gevaert gained over 6% after settling a financial dispute.

Not all shares rose. Chemicals group Syensqo was the only Bel20 stock to fall slightly, while hygiene products maker Ontex dropped more than 7% on the second-tier market.

Analysts say investor sentiment remains closely tied to geopolitical developments, with hopes of a resolution to the conflict continuing to drive market movements.

^{© BELGA PHOTO BENOIT DOPPAGNE}