The FTSE 100 Index Closes 0.60% Higher

The FTSE 100 rose 0.9% on Wednesday after a 0.7% gain in the previous session, extending its rebound on easing oil prices and hopes of a de-escalation in Middle East tensions. The index is on track for a second straight day of gains as crude falls below $100 per barrel for the first time since Monday, helping to calm inflation concerns. However, the UK benchmark is lagging broader European markets due to its heavy exposure to energy stocks, with Shell and BP declining alongside oil. Defensive names such as Reckitt Benckiser and Unilever are also lower as investors shift toward riskier assets. Banks and miners are leading gains. Meanwhile, UK inflation held steady at 3% in February, though the data is seen as outdated as it predates the recent escalation in the Middle East.

The FTSE 100 Index is up by 98 points or 0.98 percent on Wednesday. Top gainers are Croda International (4.63%), Fresnillo (3.78%) and Intermediate Capital (3.67%). Biggest losses came from Reckitt Benckiser (-2.66%), Shell (-1.34%) and Experian (-1.05%).

The FTSE 100 Index gained 60 points or 0.60 percent on Tuesday to close at 9954 points. Gains were led by BT (3.61%), BP (3.43%) and Endeavour (3.15%). Biggest losers were B&M European Value (-3.82%), Taylor Wimpey (-3.02%) and Easyjet Plc (-2.76%).