In anticipation of important economic data, Dax investors play it safe and cash in.
The leading German index opened 0.6 percent lower at 15,417 points on Friday.
On Thursday, Europe's stock markets reached their highest level in around twelve months.
"US job creations are expected to have declined for the sixth straight month in January," said portfolio manager Thomas Altmann of wealth advisor QC Partners.
This would be an indication that the previous US interest rate hikes are slowing down the economy as desired.
Even more important are the figures on wage development, which are also expected to have weakened.
"That would be a good and important signal that the US Federal Reserve can prevent the dreaded price-wage spiral."
In terms of individual values, Adidas and Puma were among the losers, each with a minus of around one percent.
A disappointing outlook from US competitor Skechers is putting pressure on the mood here, said a broker.