The DAX 40 pared initial losses to trade slightly down around 25,015 on Wednesday, as investors assessed corporate earnings alongside escalating tensions in the Middle East. Oil prices remained elevated following renewed US strikes against Iran and the reimposition of a blockade on its ports.
Meanwhile, President Trump issued a fresh ultimatum to Iran, warning that Washington would expand its military strikes to the country's critical infrastructure unless Tehran reaches an agreement by next week.
Most sectors witnessed selling pressure, particularly chemical companies and techs.
BASF (-4.7%) moved to the bottom of the index despite strong preliminary results as unchanged guidance for free cash flow disappointed and raised concerns over profitability.
In parallel, strong results from ASML Holding only partially helped the German semiconductor industry.
Infineon Technologies dropped 3.2% and Siltronic slipped 4.7%, while Jenoptik and LPKF advanced 2.1% and 4.7%, respectively.