The European Central Bank has lowered the deposit rate to 3.25% and the refinancing rate to 3.40%, marking the third consecutive cut amid slowing inflation. In the US, retail sales rose by 0.4%, surpassing expectations, while initial jobless claims fell to 241,000, offering a glimmer of hope for the economy. Investors are eyeing the 19,700-point level on the DAX, with the 19,500-point mark as a key support.