European Stocks Boosted by German Business Confidence; Carrefour Reels in a Brazilian Partner

European stocks rose on Thursday as a rise in German business confidence confirmed a rebound in Europe’s economy. The Ifo business climate index rose to 105.5 in December from 104.7 in November, as improvements in manufacturing and wholesaling indicators outpaced declines in retailing and construction. In Paris, French retailer Carrefour SA was up on plans to sell a 10% stake in its Brazilian subsidiary to billionaire Abilio Diniz, and a possible future listing of the business on the Brazilian stock exchange. And in Milan, lender Banca Carige was up amid Italian press reports that it may have to raise more capital than expected after failing the recent stress test by the European Central Bank.