European stocks started the week with slight declines, as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of the Jackson Hole central banking symposium and upcoming quarterly results from AI-leader Nvidia. The pan-European STOXX 600 index was down approximately 0.1%, reflecting the hesitant mood in the market.
Sector-specific pressures were visible, with technology stocks weighing on the market in anticipation of Nvidia's influential report. The auto sector was also impacted by negative news, including reports that Chinese EV maker Nio's European expansion is stalling amid a collapse in sales in key countries. Additionally, a dip in oil prices contributed to weakness in energy stocks.