The pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 share index powered ahead to its highest level since 2000 on Friday as the euro hit its lowest level since mid-March, Reuters reported.

At 0824 GMT, the FTSEurofirst 300 index of top European shares was up 0.4 percent at 1,636.67 points, surpassing its 2007 peak and taking its gains so far this year to 20 percent.

The euro's fall over the past year is seen supporting a recovery in the region's growth and in corporate profits. The single currency, which fell to 1.0605 against the dollar on Friday, has slipped more than 3 percent so far this week.

European stocks have risen sharply this year as global investors increased their exposure to the region on expectations the euro's slide would give companies a major lift, as roughly 50 percent of euro zone earnings come from outside the region.