Stock Movers Hermès Plunges, Standard Life Climbs, ASML Fluctuates
Apr 15, 2026
Louise Moon, Bloomberg Breaking News editor who covers European stocks, breaks down major market moves. She discusses Hermès’ sales slowdown and Middle East impacts. She outlines Standard Life’s £2bn Aegon UK deal and its pensions strategy. She also reviews ASML’s raised guidance and what deliveries mean for chip demand.
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Hermès Sales Hit By Middle East Conflict
- Hermès sales growth slowed to 5.6% in Q1 and shares plunged a record 8.5% after results missed expectations.
- Louise Moon attributes the shortfall to the Iran war reducing Middle Eastern shoppers and hitting French, Swiss and UK stores.
Luxury Sector Weakness Is Broad Not Isolated
- Luxury peers like Kering and LVMH also reported weakness tied to the conflict, with Gucci sales down 8% and a one percentage point drag on Kering.
- The war's impact is broad across the luxury sector, reducing tourist spending in major European stores.
Standard Life Expands Via Aegon UK Acquisition
- Standard Life agreed to buy Aegon’s UK arm for £2 billion, paid partly in cash and partly in new shares.
- The deal adds almost 4 million customers and leaves Aegon with just over a 15% stake in Standard Life.