As we step into a new year, the European stock market is witnessing remarkable energy, with several major indices reaching unprecedented heights, including Germany’s prominent benchmark.
Historically, January tends to be a month of moderate gains for European stocks, typically not displaying extraordinary performance. However, in recent years, this opening month has been marked by some surprisingly robust rallies, particularly among certain European companies.
Data from TradingView reveals that over the past two decades, the Euro STOXX 50 has seen an average increase of 0.26% in January, finishing higher about 56% of the time. Individual national indices reflect similar trends; for instance, Germany’s DAX has averaged a gain of 0.44% in January with a success rate of 57%, while France’s CAC 40 has shown even better results, increasing by an average of 0.58% and also finishing positively 57% of the time. Italy’s FTSE MIB stands out with a notable average rise of 1.23% in January, boasting a more impressive 62% win rate.
When comparing these findings to other months, like April or November, which have historically yielded stronger and more consistent returns, January does appear less impressive on average. Yet, what makes this January unique is the magnitude of the recent gains. For example, January 2023 and January 2025 were among the strongest months recorded for multiple European indices, with the Euro STOXX 50 soaring by 9.75% in January 2023 and an additional 7.98% in January 2025. Similarly, the DAX experienced considerable increases of 8.65% in January 2023 and 9.16% in January 2025, highlighting a renewed investor interest in cyclical and industrial sectors at the beginning of the year.
In light of these trends, specific individual stocks have emerged as reliable performers in January. Let’s take a closer look at five European companies that have consistently excelled during this month.
European Stocks That Thrive in January
5) Alten SA
The French engineering and technology consultancy Alten has demonstrated a strong positive seasonal trend in January. Over the past 20 years, the stock has averaged a gain of 4.13% during this month, rising higher 71% of the time. Particularly impressive were the recent years: it surged by 20.46% in January 2023, followed by increases of 6.84% in 2024 and 12.9% in 2025. Notably, the only significant downturns occurred during the global financial crisis, when the stock fell by 25.19% in January 2008 and 21% in January 2009, underscoring the fact that even strong seasonal trends can be impacted by major economic disruptions.
4) Accor SA
French hospitality giant Accor ranks as one of the most dependable January performers in Europe. Over the last 20 years, the stock has increased by an average of 4.3% in January, with a winning frequency of 67%. The momentum has been especially strong since the recovery from the pandemic, with all four of the past Januarys ending positively. January 2023 was particularly notable, as Accor's stock skyrocketed by 28.1% in just one month amid a rebound in travel demand.
3) Sopra Steria Group SA
Sopra Steria, a French IT consultancy, boasts one of the most reliable January records among mid-to-large European stocks, with shares rising an average of 5.75% in January over the past 20 years and a commendable 76% win rate. Excluding a sharp drop of 20% in 2022, every January over the last eight years has concluded positively. The best performance was noted in January 2012, with a remarkable rally of 23.25%, while the worst outcome during the financial crisis in 2008 saw a decline of 22.76%.
2) Sartorius AG
German life sciences supplier Sartorius is also recognized as one of the strongest performers in January. In the last two decades, the stock has gained an average of 5.85% in January, achieving a 67% win rate. Similar to Sopra Steria, all eight of the most recent Januarys have been positive, aside from the downturn in 2022. The standout performance occurred in January 2025, when Sartorius saw an impressive increase of 30.11%, showcasing renewed investor interest in high-quality healthcare suppliers. The weakest January result was recorded in 2008, when the stock fell by 12.96%.
1) Rheinmetall AG
Leading the pack is German defense powerhouse Rheinmetall, which exhibits one of the most striking January trends in the European market. Over the past 20 years, the stock has averaged a gain of 7.74% in January, achieving an astounding 90% success rate. Its performance has been especially robust in recent years, with double-digit January gains for each of the last four years—10.9% in 2022, 15.02% in 2023, 13.17% in 2024, and an impressive 22.9% in 2025. This consistency reflects both the structural advantages within the defense sector and a tendency for early-year repricing as investors reassess geopolitical risks.
The Importance of Seasonality—With Some Caution
While seasonal patterns can offer insights into typical investor behavior, portfolio adjustments, and recurring expectations, they are not definitive forecasts and can be disrupted by macroeconomic shifts, policy changes, or unforeseen geopolitical events. Although January might not statistically be Europe’s strongest month on average, history indicates that it often provides an early boost for a select group of stocks.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended as financial advice. Always conduct your own research to ensure that any investments align with your specific circumstances. We strive to provide trustworthy guidance from experts, but relying solely on the information presented here is at your own risk.
