FTSE 100 Rises for 2nd Session

2026-05-14 15:41 By Agna Gabriel 1 min. read

The FTSE 100 edged higher on Thursday after gaining 0.6% in the previous session, though it underperformed other European markets as several major stocks traded ex-dividend, weighing on the index.

Political developments also remained in focus, with leadership uncertainty increasing after Wes Streeting resigned as Keir Starmer’s health secretary, fuelling speculation about a possible challenge to the prime minister.

National Grid gained more than 1% after pledging at least £70 billion over five years to upgrade UK and US energy networks, despite missing operating profit estimates.

In contrast, Burberry fell more than 6% even after stronger-than-expected sales driven by China and the Americas and the appointment of William Jackson as its new chair.

3i dropped 14% after warning that Middle East tensions would hit its key investment in Action.

UK economic data provided some support, with GDP rising 0.6% in Q1 and March growth beating expectations at 0.3% versus a forecast contraction.



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