European stock markets ended higher on Friday mainly backed the banking sector which got a boost in reaction to surprise improvement in the German business climate index. Business confidence index from Ifo institute based in Munich gained to 109.9 in April which shocked investors and eased their tensions regarded the euro zone’s economy.

The Stoxx Europe 600 index gained 0.5 percent to close at 257.79 after a volatile session. Germany’s DAX-30 index surged 1.2 percent to settle at 6,750.12 while gained 2.5 percent for the week. Among the top performers where Commerzbank AG which soared 2.3 percent while Deutsche Bank AG advanced 1.7 percent for the day.

French, CAC-40 index soared 0.5 percent to close at 3,188.58 with Societe Generale SA among the top gainers reported the increase of 3.5 percent. Bank of America Merrill Lynch also upgraded its rating on Societe Generale. BNP Paribas SA gained 3.7 percent gained 3.7 percent while Credit Agricole SA jumped 2.3 percent for the day. French stock exchange is expected to see major changes in coming sessions as investors are keenly watching the presidential elections over the weekend.

London’s FTSE 100 index gained 0.5 percent to close at 5,772.15. The noticeable gainers included Lloyds Banking Group PLC which gained 2.8 percent while Standard Chartered PLC advanced 0.8 percent. Mining sector also performed at London’s Stock Exchange in reaction to higher commodity prices as the Rio Tinto PLC gained 1 percent while Anglo American PLC surged 1.8 percent. British Petroleum on the other hand remained lower and fell 1.2 percent for the day.

Spain’s IBEX 35 index surged 1.9 percent to 7,040.60 for the day.