Renault and Fiat shares skid after $35 bln merger deal collapses

Shares in carmakers Renault and Fiat Chrysler (FCA) both fell sharply on Thursday after Fiat Chrysler abandoned its $35 billion merger offer. Renault shares slumped 7% while Fiat's shares fell around 3% in early trading.

"With FCA pulling its merger offer, one has to wonder how much the French state is set on limiting Renault's strategic and valuation opportunities despite having only a 15% stake," analysts at brokerage Jefferies wrote in a note. "We expect both shares to react negatively but see FCA having wider strategic options and Renault shares more downside risk near-term."