Market Information Friday 20 February 2026

Consumer confidence in the eurozone improved slightly in February, according to preliminary data from the European Commission. The index rose by 0.2 points to -12.2, though the increase was smaller than markets had expected. Confidence remains below its long-term average.

U.S. crude oil inventories fell sharply by 9.0 million barrels to 419.8 million barrels in the week ending February 13, according to the EIA. Gasoline stocks declined by 3.2 million barrels and distillate inventories dropped by 4.6 million barrels. Meanwhile, refinery utilisation rose from 89.4% to 91.0%.

Solar panel manufacturers are accelerating efforts to replace silver with cheaper alternatives such as copper after silver prices surged about 130–147% over the past year, hitting a record $121.64 per ounce before easing. Silver paste accounts for roughly 30% of solar cell costs, significantly squeezing margins, while copper trades at a fraction of silver’s price. Switching to copper-based technologies could save the industry an estimated $15 billion annually, though technical challenges remain due to silver’s superior conductivity.

The 6M Euribor decreased with 2 basis points to 2.14% compared to previous business day. The 10Y Swap is unchanged at 2.76% compared to previous business day.

In the attachment, today’s market data on money and capital market rates as well as other rates are presented.