FTSE 100 Rises Ahead BoE

2026-09-17 07:30 By Agna Gabriel 1 min. read

The FTSE 100 gained more than 0.5% on Thursday, with investors focused on the Bank of England’s interest-rate decision following the Federal Reserve’s move the previous day.

The Fed raised rates by 25 basis points, as widely expected, and signalled another increase later this year, a decision that drew criticism from President Donald Trump.

Meanwhile, oil prices declined for a second consecutive session, potentially easing some pressure on UK gilt markets, although trading could remain cautious ahead of the BoE announcement.

Next led the index, rising more than 2% after the retailer raised its full-year guidance.

The company cited a modest improvement in sales expectations and additional cost savings, particularly in warehousing.

Banks also advanced, with HSBC Holdings up 1.1% and Barclays gaining 0.9%.

AstraZeneca and GSK each rose more than 1%, while Unilever added 0.5%.

Rolls-Royce gained 2% and British American Tobacco climbed 1.4%, supporting the broader market.



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