In a striking display of market optimism, London’s main stock indexes surged to record heights on Wednesday, fueled by encouraging corporate updates and a favorable U.S.-Japan trade agreement. The landmark FTSE 100 progressed by 0.5% as of 0936 GMT, with the FTSE 250 also advancing at a pace of 0.3%.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s negotiation success with Japan has further electrified global sentiment, culminating in reduced tariffs on auto imports and averting new levies on other goods. This diplomatic breakthrough included a substantial $550 billion U.S.-bound investment commitment from Japan and witnessed a 1.7% climb in the UK’s automobiles and parts index, with Aston Martin shares elevating by 7.1%.
Sector-specific gains were prominently led by media stocks, advancing 2.4% owing to Informa’s 5.4% rise post-upgrade in its annual growth forecast. Meanwhile, healthcare stocks saw a 2.2% jump, with AstraZeneca up 2.7% following substantial U.S. manufacturing expansion plans. Despite these gains, construction and materials faced a 0.9% setback, notably impacted by Breedon Group’s forecast aligning on the lower end of market expectations.
(With inputs from agencies.)
