Is Linde plc (LIN) The Best European Stock To Buy According to Hedge Funds?

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We recently compiled a list of the 8 Best European Stocks To Buy According to Hedge Funds. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Linde plc (NASDAQ:LIN) stands against the other European stocks according to hedge funds.

In a move that was largely expected, the European Central Bank (ECB) announced on October 17, to cut interest rates by a quarter point, bringing the deposit rate down to 3.25%. This marks the first consecutive rate cut since 2011 and is a clear indication of a global cutting cycle.

The ECB’s decision is seen as a response to the current economic climate, in which inflation is expected to rise again before eventually declining to target levels. While the headline inflation rate is currently below target, the core rate is higher. The ECB has also stated that it is not committing to a particular rate path, suggesting that future decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis. The rate cut is also part of a broader effort to reduce the ECB’s balance sheet and scale back its pandemic emergency programs. This move is seen as a sign that the ECB is confident in the European economy’s ability to withstand the withdrawal of stimulus measures.

According to a report by Lazard Asset Management, the European economy is showing signs of stalling, but the equity market remains resilient. Despite the European Central Bank (ECB) cutting interest rates and indicating a “declining path,” this could serve as a tailwind for European equity prices over the near term.

The report notes that the ECB’s rate cuts, combined with the Federal Reserve’s cut in US interest rates, could provide a supportive environment for European equities.

European equities have remained resilient despite the economic slowdown, avoiding any significant declines. This is unusual, as typically, stock markets perform poorly when faced with flagging economic activity and interest rate cuts. However, the ECB’s rate cuts have not been the only unusual aspect of the current market environment.

The report suggests that the falling cost of capital could provide support for certain cyclical parts of the market, such as chemicals and commodity producers, where valuations have become overly discounted. Additionally, the report notes that companies are engaging in more shareholder-friendly behavior, including strategic spin-offs, share buybacks, and healthy dividend payments.

In an interview with CNBC on October 23, Trond Grande, Deputy CEO of Norges Bank Investment Management, shared his insights on the current market trends and the potential impact of the central bank’s monetary policy decisions on the portfolio.

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