Europe’s Benchmark Stocks Index Hits 500 Points for First Time

Europe’s main stocks benchmark surpassed 500 points on Thursday — 24 years after hitting 400 points — boosted by heavyweights Novo Nordisk A/S and ASML Holding NV.

The Stoxx 600 Index breached the record level as investors await clues on the path for interest rates from the European Central Bank, which is expected to keep borrowing costs steady later today.