European Stocks Slide as Oil Prices Fuel Inflation Concerns

European stocks declined on Monday as rising oil prices fueled inflation concerns and expectations of an ECB rate hike.

The pan-European STOXX 600 index fell by 0.1% to 649.17 points, while Switzerland's benchmark index dropped by 1.2%.

Energy stocks rose 1.2% as Brent crude prices surged due to renewed geopolitical fears and supply disruptions.

The increase in oil prices has raised concerns that higher energy costs could push inflation above the ECB's target, leading markets to price in a 25 basis point hike at this week's central bank meeting.