The DAX 40 edged up 0.3% to around 26,070 on Friday after a slow start, extending modest gains for a second session. The automotive sector provided the main support, led by a 6.3% surge in Volkswagen shares following the board’s approval of a major turnaround plan. Meanwhile, market participants continued to assess the outlook for the monetary policy, with the ECB expected to deliver a final 25 bps rate hike next week. Middle East developments also remained in focus.