The CAC 40 climbed 2.9% to close at 8,299 on Wednesday, extending gains from the previous session as an improved geopolitical backdrop and upbeat corporate earnings lifted sentiment. US President Donald Trump signaled a pause in efforts to assist vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, citing ongoing talks with Iran, and said “great progress” had been made toward a potential agreement, easing concerns over disruptions to a key energy corridor. Financials led gains, with BNP Paribas (+5.2%), Soci