Market Overview
UK and European equities traded lower in early dealings, with the FTSE 100 down 0.67 per cent at 10,369.14 and the FTSE 250 lower alongside broader regional weakness. Germany’s DAX slipped 0.32 per cent, while US markets were more resilient overnight, with the Dow Jones rising 1.24 per cent and the S&P 500 edging 0.06 per cent higher. Investor focus remains on geopolitical tensions linked to the Iran conflict, alongside scrutiny of UK banking valuations, local election implications and ongoing cost pressures facing UK housebuilders.
Commodity markets reflected the geopolitical backdrop, with Brent crude remaining elevated despite easing 2.63 per cent from recent highs. Gold and copper both advanced, pointing to continued demand for defensive assets and industrial metals, while natural gas also moved higher. Sterling strengthened against the US dollar and Japanese yen but weakened slightly versus the euro and Australian dollar. Bitcoin traded firmer against the pound as risk appetite stabilised.
Market Numbers
FTSE 100: Down (-0.67%), 10,369.14
FTSE 250: Down (-0.57%), 5,632.10
DOW: Up (1.24%), 49,910.59
NASDAQ: Up (0.25%), 22,888.87
S&P 500: Up (0.06%), 7,342.60
In the Headlines
Oil Windfall – Shell (SHEL)
Shell reported stronger profits as elevated oil prices linked to the Iran conflict supported earnings. The update highlights how major energy producers are benefiting from sustained volatility in global energy markets.
Defence Outlook – BAE Systems (BA.)
BAE Systems reiterated confidence in its long-term growth outlook as rising global security concerns continue to drive defence spending. The company’s comments reinforce expectations of sustained demand across the aerospace and defence sector.
Currencies (vs GBP)
USD: Up (0.21%), $1.362
EUR: Down (-0.02%), €1.1568
JPY: Up (0.14%), ¥213.0045
AUD: Down (-0.13%), $1.8761
Bitcoin (BTC/GBP): Up (0.25%), £22,888.87
Commodities
Brent Crude: Down (-2.63%), 97.99
Gold: Up (0.34%), 4,735.76
Copper: Up (0.65%), 6.2082
Natural Gas: Up (0.35%), 2.8695
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