European stocks close higher amid French political uncertainty; Direct Line up over 6% Chloe Taylor This is CNBC’s live blog covering European markets.

12 Hours Ago Europe stocks close higher European stocks closed slightly higher on Friday as investors scrutinized highly anticipated U.S. economic data and ongoing political turmoil in France. The pan-European Stoxx 600 index provisionally ended up 0.2%, with most sectors in positive territory. Autos stocks led the gains, up more than 1.8%, while mining stocks fell 0.8%. agreement. The German spokesperson’s comments come a day after EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said the finish line for the deal was “in sight,” as she arrived in Uruguay for talks with regional officials.