UK stocks close higher as weaker sterling boosts export-heavy sectors
UK stocks ended higher on Wednesday, supported by a rise in healthcare and consumer staples sectors, which gained on a weaker sterling after data showed US inflation came in hotter than expected. The blue-chip FTSE 100 index closed up 0.7% at 10,724.86 points, while the midcap FTSE 250 edged up 0.1%. Stronger-than-expected US inflation reading supported the dollar, lifting risk appetite for…
On Wednesday, the UK's stock market saw an upward trend, buoyed by a weaker pound that bolstered export-oriented sectors. The FTSE 100 index rose by 0.7% to 10,724.86 points, while the FTSE 250 grew by 0.1%. A surge in US inflation exceeded forecasts, making the dollar appreciate and encouraging risk-taking in export-driven industries.
Pharmaceutical giants AstraZeneca and GSK each surged more than 3.4%, while consumer goods leader Unilever climbed 2.5%. Among the top performers in the FTSE 100 were luxury retailer Burberry, which jumped 3.5%, and homebuilders who gained 3.2%.
Finance Minister John Healey is anticipated to fund new projects either through increased taxation or spending cuts, rather than resorting to more borrowing, according to the Financial Times. The looming Iran conflict adds further strain to Britain's fiscal situation. Market expectations of four interest rate hikes within the next year from the Bank of England have been met with skepticism by its chief economist, Huw Pill.
He believes any rate increases would be viewed as precautionary measures, given the sluggish labor market. Senior EMEA markets strategist Geoff YU at BNY echoed this sentiment.
Meanwhile, precious metal miners faced a decline of 3.5%, mirroring the drop in gold and silver prices. The banking sector also experienced a slight setback, with stocks falling by 0.6%. Self-storage company Big Yellow saw a 5.4% increase after activist investor Ancora advocated for a strategic review, suggesting the possibility of a takeover.
Conversely, IT firm Softcat saw a sharp drop of 10.7% to its lowest point since May 29 due to a more modest growth outlook for 2027. Investors now look forward to the UK's August GDP figures, set to be released on Thursday.
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