Total's Q3 European refining margin jumps

• Total (TOT -1.3%) says its European refining margin - a much scrutinized indicator gauging the health of the European refining industry - jumped to $29.9/metric ton in Q3 vs. $10.9/ton in Q2 and $6.6/ton in Q1.
• The increase is seen as good news for a business that was hit by a stiff drop in demand for oil products after the economic crisis and stricter environmental regulations.