European stock markets mid session: stock marktes climbed supported by the better-than-expected results of Apple and Facebook

European stocks climbed supported by the better-than-expected first quarter results of Apple and Facebook. The revenue of Facebook increased 72%. German IFO business climate had also a positive influence on stock markets. The index climbed to 111.2 in April from 110.7 in March. The projected figure was 110.5 points.

The European Central Bank president Mario Draghi said at a banking conference in Amsterdam the European Central Bank could trigger new quantitative stimulus measures to combating the threat of deflation and the credit crunch. A strong euro could also trigger additional action by the central bank.

Alstom SA (ALO) shares increased 11% because of the rumours General Electric Co. want to acquire Alstom.

Michelin & Cie. - Europe’s largest tiremaker – declined 3.1% after announcing the worse-than-expected revenue in the first quarter.

Scania AB shares jumped 10% after the fourth-largest owner backed the Volkswagen’s bid.

Current figures:

Name                                   Price                                    Change                 Change %

FTSE 100                              6,716.99                              42.25                     0.63%  

DAX                                       9,610.79                              66.60                     0.70%

CAC 40                                  4,491.15                              40.07                     0.70%