European Tire Stocks Face Pressure After Tariff Announcement

European tyre stocks are feeling the impact of new tariffs imposed by the European Commission, which are reshaping the market dynamics. Analysts at Bernstein have identified Michelin as one of the best-positioned manufacturers due to its diversified supply chain and strong European presence, while Nokian Tyres faces significant vulnerabilities amidst supply chain disruptions and increased tariffs. In the automotive sector, Citi analysts view the newly announced 25% U.S. auto import tariffs as a potential 'clearing event' for European auto stocks, despite an initial negative market reaction. They suggest that certain companies like Volkswagen and Renault could recover if broader EU economic trends remain stable. Meanwhile, President Trump has confirmed that these tariffs will gradually rise starting from April 2, which has led to some criticism regarding the lack of support measures for the automotive industry in the UK. The overall sentiment in both sectors highlights the challenges posed by regulatory changes and market conditions, while also pointing to potential opportunities for resilient companies.