European shares slipped on Tuesday as weakness in unrefined rates dragged energy stocks, while investors avoided putting big bets before the European Central Bank's rate of interest decision later on today.

The continent-wide STOXX 600 was down 0.4% by 0720 GMT, snapping a three-day winning streak.

Energy stocks dropped 1.9% to hit over a two-month low, tracking a more than 1% fall in oil costs as investors anxious about supply ticking up later in the year in the middle of signs of weakening U.S. need.

Contributing to the sector's losses, British oil giant BP fell 2.7% after scores firm S&P Global modified the company's. credit outlook lower.

A risk-off mood likewise embeded in as market participants waited for. the ECB's rate verdict on Thursday, where it is anticipated to alleviate. borrowing expenses by 25 basis points.

The current uptick in the euro zone inflation information, however,. has actually cast a doubt on additional monetary easing prospects this year.

To name a few stocks, Allianz slipped 2.1% after. Citigroup devalued the German insurance company to neutral from purchase.

Maersk acquired 1.6% after the Danish shipping. group raised its full-year earnings assistance on the back of strong. container market demand.