European markets fell on Monday as investors controlled a new variant of the coronavirus that has spread rapidly and closed much of the UK
The pan-European Stoxx 600 fell 1.8% in early business, with a 4% drop in travel and leisure stocks, which caused losses as all sectors and major stock markets fell into negative territory. .
Traders are nervously watching the new Covid mutation in the UK, which has caused a hard blockade in London and other parts of the south-east of England and a change of origin on the household mix over Christmas.
The variant is believed to be up to 70% more communicable than the original strain of the disease. The World Health Organization said it has so far been identified in Denmark, the Netherlands and Australia.
It led to several countries in Europe and elsewhere blocking travel from Britain. France, Germany, Italy, Ireland and the Netherlands have banned flights from the UK, while Canada and Israel have done the same.
The situation could further complicate talks on Brexit. Britain and the European Union remain at a standstill for post-Brexit trade relations as the December 31 deadline expires, with disputes over issues such as fisheries reaching negotiations.
The pound sterling plunged sharply against the dollar, falling 1.7%, to around $ 1.33.
In Asia, traded stocks were mixed, as the coronavirus situation in parts of North Asia (such as Japan and South Korea) remains dire.
Meanwhile, future Americans were left flat after Congress reached an agreement on a $ 900 billion coronavirus stimulus package. Lawmakers will vote on the aid and funding bill on Monday.
As for the data, eurozone consumer confidence data is due to be released at 3pm London time.
Travel stocks are suffering
IAG, a parent company of British Airways, fell 13.5% in early business to lead a broad decline in airlines and travel.
Cruise operator Carnival fell 8.8%, while Tui, Lufthansa and Rolls-Royce slipped more than 7%.