FTSE 100 falls as Gulf tensions lift Brent crude, while SSE boosts infrastructure investment and Johnson Matthey beats cash flow estimates.
Market Overview
European markets traded lower amid renewed geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region after reports of fresh US-Iran strike exchanges weakened hopes of a ceasefire. The FTSE 100 fell 0.80 per cent to 10,406.44, while the DAX slipped 0.03 per cent and the S&P 500 lost 0.31 per cent. The Nasdaq also moved lower as investors monitored escalating tensions alongside concerns over energy supply disruption and broader global growth risks.
Commodity markets reflected the heightened uncertainty, with Brent crude climbing above $94 per barrel on fears surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and supply flows. Gold remained supported by demand for defensive assets, while Bitcoin weakened against sterling as broader risk appetite softened. Sterling traded weaker against most major currencies, with investors also assessing the outlook for inflation and central bank policy amid rising energy prices.
Market Numbers
FTSE 100: Down (-0.80%), 10,406.44
CAC40: Up (0.43%), 8,207.890
DAX: Down (-0.03%), 25,177.80
NASDAQ: Down (-0.36%), 29,880.0
S&P 500: Down (-0.31%), 7,515.0
In the Headlines
Infrastructure Expansion – SSE (LSE:SSE)
SSE accelerated infrastructure spending plans to support long-term growth tied to the energy transition, with investment focused on electricity networks and renewable energy projects. The move highlights continued demand for grid upgrades and clean energy infrastructure across the UK.
Cash Flow Growth – Johnson Matthey (LSE:JMAT)
Johnson Matthey reported that FY26 free cash flow more than doubled and exceeded analyst expectations, supported by operational improvements and stronger business performance. The update may strengthen investor confidence in the company’s restructuring and capital allocation strategy.
Currencies (vs GBP)
USD: Down (-0.13%), $1.3402
CHF: Down (-0.10%), Fr.1.05594
EUR: Down (-0.04%), €1.1538
JPY: Down (-0.20%), ¥213.782
AUD: Up (0.16%), $1.881840
Bitcoin (BTC/GBP): Down (-1.49%), £54,578.6
Commodities
Copper: Down (0.35%), 6.34338
Gold: Down (1.42%), 4,392.96
Brent Crude: Up (2.35%), 94.61
Natural Gas: Down (-0.26%), 3.072
Leave a Reply