AEX gains 0.70 percent at midday as DSM leads rally

The AEX climbed to 1,131.50 points at midday as DSM-Firmenich and IMCD led gains, while euro area retail growth missed forecasts.

The AEX was trading at 1,131.50 points at midday on October 6, 2026, up 0.70 percent, as chemical stocks led the advance and the index held near its record territory. IEX reported that the index had reached an intraday peak near 1,136 points earlier in the session.

Chemical stocks lead the advance

DSM-Firmenich gained 2.90 percent and IMCD rose 2.40 percent, making them the strongest named contributors in the index at midday, according to IEX. The move extended Monday's advance, when the AEX closed at 1,123.88 points, a gain of 0.64 percent, based on The Edge.

The opening strength followed a new record close for the AEX on Monday. Ground News, citing ANP coverage, said the Nasdaq also reached a record on Monday while oil prices were lower.

Retail data and the afternoon agenda

Euro area retail trade volume increased 0.10 percent month over month in August, below the 0.20 percent forecast, according to Eurostat. The annual measure rose 1.00 percent.

The US trade balance is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. CEST, with a forecast deficit of USD 102.05 billion after USD 88.6 billion previously, according to XTB. The data is due after the European midday session and will provide the next scheduled market test for October 6.

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