Stock indices closed lower as technology stocks declined.

German Ifo business climate index climbed to 107.9 in March from 106.8 in February, exceeding expectations for a rise to 107.4. It was the highest level since July 2014.

The better sentiment was supported by ECB's quantitative easing.

The number of mortgage approvals in the U.K. increased to 37,300 in February from 36,500 in January, exceeding expectations for a rise to 36,900. January's figure was revised up from 36,400.

Indexes on the close:

Name Price Change Change %

FTSE 100 6,990.97 -28.71 -0.41 %

DAX 11,865.32 -140.37 -1.17 %

CAC 40 5,020.99 -67.29 -1.32 %