European stocks close at record as mining shares rally

European equity markets closed at record highs after gains in mining stocks lifted sentiment. Shares of Glencore surged following reports of renewed interest from Rio Tinto, sparking speculation around consolidation in the global mining sector. Broader indices were supported by easing inflation concerns and stable economic indicators, helping offset lingering geopolitical risks.

US equity benchmarks ended at record levels on January 9 after December employment data showed slower than expected job creation. Nonfarm payrolls increased by 50,000 compared with estimates of 70,000, while the unemployment rate edged up to 4.4%. The Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq rose between 0.5% and 0.8%, reflecting optimism that monetary tightening may ease later in 2026.