European shares traded sideways on Thursday after the STOXX 600 fell 1.4% in the previous session, as investors positioned for the European Central Bank’s expected 25-basis-point rate increase to 2.5%. The decision was scheduled for 1215 GMT, followed by President Christine Lagarde’s press conference at 1245 GMT, with markets focused on whether the ECB would signal another increase or adopt a more cautious, data-dependent stance. Brent crude remained above $100 a barrel after breaking through that level for the first time since July, reviving concerns about persistent inflation and longer-lasting restrictive monetary policy. Energy and banking stocks advanced, while technology shares weakened. Associated British Foods fell nearly 12% after disappointing Primark sales, while D’Ieteren rose nearly 5% after reporting improved first-half earnings and appointing a new chief executive. German inflation was 2.9% in August, and U.S. producer-price and consumer-price reports due Thursday and Friday respectively could influence expectations for Federal Reserve policy.