European Shares Flat Ahead of Euro Zone Inflation Data

European shares were muted on Thursday, August 13, as investors awaited euro zone inflation data following a strong earnings season.

The pan-European Stoxx 600 closed little changed at 659.24 points, retreating from record highs in the previous session.

Countries in the region are on track for one of the strongest earnings seasons in years, with energy and materials sector profit boosted by elevated commodity prices driven by the Middle East conflict.

However, investor sentiment remained subdued due to uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict, with the US and Iran making competing claims over the control of the Strait of Hormuz - a crucial waterway for global energy supplies.