The DAX index came close to its highest point ever, finishing at 20,426, just nine points away from the previous record of 20,462.

After the European Central Bank's final interest rate decision of the year, the index started at 20,440, dropped to a low of 20,388, and then rose to a high of 20,453 before ending with a small gain of 0.1%.

Now that the DAX is above the significant 20,400 level, market focus turns to the possibility of new record highs. Analysts suggest that if the index can maintain its upward momentum and surpass the previous record, there are no immediate technical obstacles ahead. However, if the DAX falls back below 20,400, traders will be watching the open price gap from last Wednesday, with a potential test of the 20,000 level if upward movement fails. Further declines could lead the index to target the October high of 19,675, with additional support levels at 19,564 and 19,492, along with the short-term 50-day line currently at 19,474.