FTSE 100 rises as Dunelm reports sales growth and Anglo Asian Mining confirms copper output. European shares weaken while Brent crude declines.
Market Overview
The FTSE 100 opened higher on Thursday, gaining 0.18 per cent to 10,742.59, as stronger-than-expected UK GDP data helped offset concerns surrounding technology stocks and US inflation. European markets weakened, with the Euronext 100 falling 0.73 per cent and Germany’s DAX declining 0.37 per cent. On Wall Street, the Nasdaq closed lower at 26,692.87, while the S&P 500 fell to 7,718.94, reflecting pressure on technology shares and renewed inflation concerns.
Commodity markets were mixed, with copper declining while gold advanced. Brent crude and natural gas both moved lower, as oil traders assessed the global supply outlook alongside continuing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Bitcoin edged down against sterling. In currency markets, the pound strengthened against the US dollar, Japanese yen and Australian dollar but weakened against the Swiss franc and euro, as investors assessed inflation risks and the outlook for monetary policy.
Market Numbers
FTSE 100: Up (+0.18%), 10,742.59
Euronext 100: Down (-0.73%), 1,852.85
DAX: Down (-0.37%), 25,204.26
NASDAQ: Down, 26,692.87
S&P 500: Down, 7,718.94
In the Headlines
Quarterly Sales Growth – Dunelm Group (LSE:DNLM)
UK homewares retailer Dunelm reported a 1.1 per cent increase in first-quarter FY27 sales to £433 million, with trading improving towards the end of the period following a slower start. The company maintained its full-year adjusted profit outlook despite subdued consumer demand and expectations of lower first-half profitability.
Copper Production Update – Anglo Asian Mining (LSE:AAZ)
Anglo Asian Mining reported third-quarter copper production of 5,514 tonnes and reaffirmed its production guidance for 2026. The update provides investors with an indication of operational progress as the mining group continues developing its copper production activities.
Currencies (vs GBP)
USD: Down (-0.13%), $1.3248
CHF: Up (+0.12%), Fr.1.0991
EUR: Up (+0.02%), €1.1815
JPY: Down (-0.15%), ¥209.2865
AUD: Down (-0.69%), $1.909
Bitcoin (BTC/GBP): Down, £61,261.94
Commodities
Copper: Down
Gold: Up
Brent Crude: Down
Natural Gas: Down
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