Author: 123jump.com Staff
123jump.com
Last Update: 5:25 PM EDT May 02 2008

European stocks closed higher on a rise in airlines, banks and commodities stocks. The market averages in the region tracked morning gains in the U.S. German retail sales fell in April as consumers battel rising food and energy prices. Home prices in UK declined as lenders tighten mortgage lending. April auto sales in France rose 14%. BNP Paribas and Credit Agricole rose on a broker recommendation.