The UK’s FTSE 100 experienced a rebound on Friday, as the easing of oil prices and bond yields contributed to alleviating inflation concerns, following a global bond sell-off that had previously dampened risk appetite earlier in the week.
Despite rising 0.28% to 10,455.34 points by 1007, the blue-chip FTSE 100 index remained on the verge of its biggest weekly fall since April. The midcap FTSE 250 climbed 0.52% to 24,267.39 points.
- Oil prices declined approximately 3% following a significant increase the previous day, as reports regarding discussions on further releases of diesel and crude stocks alleviated worries about constrained global energy supplies.
- Global shares experienced an uptick as the extreme fluctuations in bond and currency markets subsided in anticipation of crucial US jobs data, which may influence projections regarding the Federal Reserve’s forthcoming policy decisions.
- Gilt yields experienced a decline, as the benchmark 10-year gilt yield decreased to 5.332%, following a rise to its highest level since 2007 in the prior session.
- The retreat in yields helped push rate-sensitive homebuilders up 1.1% after a 5% drop a day earlier.
- Still, banks continued to remain under pressure, with the index of UK lenders set for its biggest weekly drop since March.
- Among stocks, IG Group tumbled 22% after the online trading platform cut its 2026 revenue growth forecast, citing weak market conditions that hurt client retention in its over-the-counter derivatives business. Peers Plus 500 declined 4.7%, while CMC Markets experienced a decline of 8.8%, respectively.
- BAE Systems opens new tab advanced about 1% after reports that the company is among the potential bidders that are in the early stages of exploring an offer for Robin Radar Systems.
- Pub chain J D Wetherspoon has experienced a 6.9% increase following the announcement of stronger sales growth since July, a development attributed to favourable weather conditions. However, the company has also issued a caution regarding escalating costs and potential closures.
