European stocks fall as fuel prices push inflation higher; French borrowing costs hit 4.85%

European stock markets fell Wednesday after data showed inflation rising across major economies due to surging fuel prices. Paris led declines at -0.89%, weighed by growing political and budgetary uncertainty in France. French borrowing costs hit a new high since 2008 at 4.85% ahead of Thursday's 2027 budget presentation. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, lacking a parliamentary majority, warned of a financial crisis risk. September inflation exceeded forecasts in France (3%), Italy (4.2%), and Germany (3.3%). Oil prices rose, with Brent at $103.76 per barrel. Investors awaited Micron's earnings after Wall Street, while analysts noted AI-related tech firms currently drive US markets.