The FTSE 100 experienced a decline of 0.3% due to renewed trade tensions stemming from a new global tariff regime. Financial and healthcare sectors faced downward pressure, particularly banks concerned about the potential impact of tariffs on economic activity. Commodity-linked stocks partially offset these losses due to higher crude prices and firmer metals.
- The FTSE 100 traded 0.3% lower.
- New 10% global tariff regime raised trade tensions.
- Financial and healthcare stocks weighed on the index.
- Banks such as HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds Banking Group, NatWest, and Standard Chartered experienced declines.
- Unite Group slid nearly 10% due to weaker occupancy.
- Commodity-linked stocks, including oil majors and miners, showed strength.
- Convatec rose almost 8% after raising medium term guidance.
- Croda gained 3.7% after reporting earnings in line with expectations.
The index’s performance reflects a mixed market sentiment. While trade concerns negatively impacted financial institutions and some specific companies, gains in commodity-related areas and positive corporate updates from certain firms provided some counterbalance. This suggests a degree of sector rotation and selective investment based on company-specific factors, rather than a uniformly bearish outlook.