The FTSE 100 index experienced a positive shift, climbing 0.3% and ending a six-day period of losses. This rebound occurred as investors reacted favorably to a lower-than-anticipated US inflation report, even as trade tensions persisted. Several sectors contributed to the index’s rise, including banking, pharmaceuticals, and oil, with specific companies showing notable gains.
- The FTSE 100 increased by 0.3%.
- The rise ended a six-day losing streak.
- Investor sentiment was boosted by a US inflation report showing a 2.8% annual increase in February.
- Rolls-Royce saw gains exceeding 3.5%.
- Banking stocks rallied, with Barclays, NatWest, Standard Chartered, and HSBC Holdings all showing positive movement.
- AstraZeneca increased by over 1%.
- Shell and BP rose by 0.6% and 0.9%, respectively.
- Fresnillo experienced a jump of more than 4%.
The index’s positive performance suggests renewed investor confidence, partly driven by easing concerns over potential aggressive monetary policy adjustments in the US. Gains in key sectors such as banking and energy further bolstered the index. Additionally, companies seen as safe-haven assets also rallied, reflecting ongoing uncertainty in the global economy.