The FTSE 100 closed nearly flat at 9,223 on Tuesday, relinquishing some earlier gains as investors considered weaker-than-expected PMI data and anticipated a speech from Fed Chair Jerome Powell. The UK’s private sector growth slowed, although the OECD slightly increased its UK growth projection for 2025 while also warning about potentially high inflation. Individual stocks experienced varied performance, with some sectors benefiting while others faced headwinds.
- The FTSE 100 closed at 9,223.
- UK private-sector growth eased to its weakest pace since May.
- The OECD slightly increased its UK growth projection to 1.4% for 2025.
- The OECD indicated that inflation could hit 3.5% by year-end.
- Kingfisher gained nearly 15% after raising its full-year outlook.
- Smiths Group retreated over 3% from record highs due to profit-taking.
- AstraZeneca and British American Tobacco experienced losses.
The asset’s performance reflects a market grappling with conflicting signals. While positive growth projections offer some encouragement, concerns about inflation and slowing economic activity are creating uncertainty. Individual company performance appears heavily influenced by sector-specific news and profit-taking activities. Overall, the asset’s near-term direction is likely to remain sensitive to incoming economic data and global market sentiment.