Auto-stocks drive European shares higher on tariff delay hopes

The news spurred investors to boost positions in tariff-sensitive firms, aiding a recovery among a swathe of European stocks. Atlantic Markets' John Woolfitt said it appeared the market was relieved that Trump "can actually act in a civilised manner and isn't on a total rampage inciting trade wars across the globe," giving the partnership and relationship with the EU "some much needed respite". Shares of Italian lenders have been pressured this week, as yields on the sovereign's bonds continue to rise a day after Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said Rome was ready to break EU fiscal rules.