Brussels, July 06 (QNA) - European stocks retreated after the STOXX Europe 600 reached a record high earlier today, as investors took profits following a strong rally.

The STOXX Europe 600 fell 0.35 percent to close at 650.5 points. The index had climbed to an all-time high of 654.44 points earlier in the session, after posting its strongest weekly performance since mid-May last week.

Germany's DAX rose 0.15 percent to a record high, extending its gains for a fifth consecutive session.

Industrial orders in the eurozone's largest economy increased more than expected in May.

Data released today also showed that retail sales in the eurozone rose 1.6 percent year-on-year in May, in line with expectations. (QNA)