CAC-40
The CAC-40 is France’s benchmark stockmarket index.
Of the stocks in France's benchmark index, 62% are economically sensitive, or cyclical, while the rest are typically classed as defensive. That gives the CAC-40 a similar profile to Britain's FTSE 100.
The largest sector is the consumer goods industry, comprising almost a fifth of the index. It is made up largely of personal or household goods and food and drink firms. After healthcare, the other defensive sectors are utilities and telecoms, respectively accounting for 5.3% and 3.2% of the index. Heavyweight industrials, oil and gas sectors, financials, consumer services and basic materials segments are all economically sensitive.
See Tim Bennett's video tutorial: What is an index?
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Sign up for MoneyWeek's newsletters
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
-
AI will maintain Moody’s market lead
Opinion Veteran data provider Moody's has adapted well to the modern world, and is one of Warren Buffett’s longest-held investments
By Stephen Connolly Published
-
Larger homes drive house price growth – Halifax
The average cost of a house in Britain is more than £10,000 higher than last year, according to the latest house price index
By Daniel Hilton Published