European stock markets close lower

By Ovunc Kutlu

ANKARA (AA) - European stock markets closed lower on Monday, kicking off the new week on a losing note.

The STOXX Europe 600, which includes around 90% of the market capitalization of the European market in 17 countries, was down 3.44 points, or 0.81%, to finish at 442.65.

The UK's FTSE 100 decreased 52 points, or 0.7%, to finish at 7,427. France's CAC 40 fell 78 points, or 0.61%, to end at 6,222.

Germany's DAX 30 also declined 78 points, or 0.61%, to close at 12,892.

Italy's FTSE MIB was down 53 points, or 0.24%, to 21,841.

Spain's IBEX 35 became the day's worst performer by plummeting 74 points, or 0.92%, to 7,989 at the closing bell.