CAC 40 definition definition

France’s main stock market index, tracking the 40 largest companies listed on the Euronext Paris exchange.

What is the CAC 40?

The CAC 40 is France’s main stock market index, tracking the 40 largest companies listed on the Euronext Paris exchange. Think of it as France’s version of the S&P 500 or FTSE 100, featuring big names like L’Oréal, LVMH, and Airbus.

The index is weighted by market value, meaning larger companies have a bigger impact on its movements. When people talk about how the French stock market is doing, they’re usually referring to the CAC 40.

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It's important you know

Capital at risk. All investing should be for the longer term. The value of your investments can go up and down, and you may get back less than you invest. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may be subject to change in the future.

A 25% government penalty applies if you withdraw money from a Lifetime ISA for any reason other than buying your first home (up to £450,000) or for retirement, and you may get back less than you paid into your Lifetime ISA.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Payments you make into your pension won’t be accessible until the minimum pension age (currently 55, increasing to age 57 from 2028). Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may be subject to change in the future.

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