Madrid stock market sinks as Catalan separatists file independence resolution
London — The Madrid stock market sank on Friday, bucking an upward trend in Europe, as Spanish legislators were set to vote on the imposition of direct rule on independence-seeking Catalonia. Meanwhile, Catalan separatist parties filed a resolution in the regional parliament on Friday in which they declared independence from Spain. Madrid’s benchmark Ibex 35 index of major companies shed about 1% in value in early afternoon deals. "The Ibex 35 is the notable exception to Europe’s positive move, as the market is in the red," said IG analyst David Madden. "The Spanish senate is expected to vote in favour of stripping Catalonia of its autonomous powers and impose direct rule from Madrid. Such a move is likely to stir up tensions in the region, and investors are staying clear of Spanish stocks." Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has asked the Senate for the go-ahead to depose Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont and his executive in a bid to stop their independence drive. A top EU offici...
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