European Markets Slip as Miners, Energy Stocks Weigh Down

European markets closed mostly lower as mining and energy stocks retreated, with the pan-European Stoxx 600 down 0.1%. Gold prices reached a record high, driven by geopolitical uncertainty, a weaker U.S. dollar, and expectations of interest rate cuts. U.S. stocks also opened lower, breaking a five-week winning streak. Executives in the cryptocurrency industry predict a new bull run, with bitcoin potentially surpassing $100,000 in 2024. Barclays strategists remain skeptical about rate cuts, while European shares nudge lower due to declines in mining and energy stocks.