European stock markets lower at Thursday open

ANKARA

European stock exchanges were lower at Thursday's open amid concern over growth outlook and high inflation.

The pan-European STOXX 600 fell 0.13% or 0.52 points to 388.90.

The UK's FTSE 100 index decreased 0.80%, or 56.17 points, to 6,949.22.

In order to calm the market, the Bank of England (BoE) stepped in on Wednesday, announcing that it will temporarily purchase long-dated UK government bonds.

Sterling has plunged to record lows against the US dollar in recent days, falling 1% against the greenback once again on Thursday.

Germany's DAX 30 was down by 0.27%, or 33.32 points, to 12,149.96 points.

France's CAC 40 rose 0.19%, or 11.2 points, to open the day at 5,765 points.

Italy's FTSE MIB declined 0.16%, or 32.67 points, to 20,280.

Spain's IBEX 35 fell 0.60%, or 44.64 points, to 7,397.58.