ISTANBUL: European stocks closed higher on Thursday to post their first gain of 2024 after two consecutive daily losses. The STOXX Europe 600, which includes around 90% of the market capitalization of the European markets in 17 countries, was up 3.28 points, or 0.69%, to finish at 477.68. The UK's FTSE 100 rose 40 points, or 0.53%, to close the third trading day of the new year at 7,723. Germany's DAX 30 added 78 points, or 0.48%, to 16,617. France's CAC 40 climbed 38 points, or 0.52%, to 7,450 and Italy's FTSE MIB increased 303 points, or 1.01%, to end the session at 30,403. Spain's IBEX 35 was the best performer of the day, soaring 129 points, or 1.28%, to 10,182 at the closing bell. Source: Anadolu Agency