FTSE 100 Edges Up, Set for Monthly Gain

2026-05-29 07:58 By Agna Gabriel 1 min. read

The FTSE 100 edged slightly higher on Friday and remained on track for another monthly gain, rising 0.6% in May after a 2% increase in April, though the index is still around 4.4% below levels seen before the war began.

Sentiment was supported by positive developments in the Middle East after reports that the US and Iran agreed to extend their ceasefire by 60 days, pending approval from President Donald Trump.

Oil prices moved lower on expectations that the truce could hold.

AstraZeneca gained around 1% after its blockbuster drug Imfinzi received US approval for the treatment of early bladder cancer.

Defence stocks also advanced, with BAE Systems up 0.9% and Rolls Royce gaining 1.1%.

Among banks, Lloyds and Barclays rose 0.7% and 1.2% respectively, while HSBC edged lower.

Unilever also declined, while BAT dropped more than 1.5% and GSK fell over 0.5%.



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FTSE 100 Edges Up, Set for Monthly Gain
The FTSE 100 edged slightly higher on Friday and remained on track for another monthly gain, rising 0.6% in May after a 2% increase in April, though the index is still around 4.4% below levels seen before the war began. Sentiment was supported by positive developments in the Middle East after reports that the US and Iran agreed to extend their ceasefire by 60 days, pending approval from President Donald Trump. Oil prices moved lower on expectations that the truce could hold. AstraZeneca gained around 1% after its blockbuster drug Imfinzi received US approval for the treatment of early bladder cancer. Defence stocks also advanced, with BAE Systems up 0.9% and Rolls Royce gaining 1.1%. Among banks, Lloyds and Barclays rose 0.7% and 1.2% respectively, while HSBC edged lower. Unilever also declined, while BAT dropped more than 1.5% and GSK fell over 0.5%.
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