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Highlights
FTSE 100 closed at a new record high, surpassing its March peak
LON:EDV and LON:BT.A were among the top gainers in afternoon trading
Confidence data showed a decline across the UK and broader Europe
The FTSE 100, a key benchmark for UK blue-chip stocks, secured a fresh record high at the close of Thursday’s trading. The index edged higher during the session, overcoming prior resistance levels seen earlier in the week. Gains were supported by strength across several large-cap stocks, spanning mining, telecommunications, and retail sectors.
The broader FTSE market reflected a mixed tone, with contrasting movements among individual constituents. The milestone close followed two consecutive sessions where the index hovered just below its previous record set in March.
LON:EDV Leads the Gains in Mining Sector
(LON:EDV) surged strongly, topping the list of risers on the FTSE 100. The mining group benefited from renewed momentum in commodity-linked stocks, with investor sentiment remaining favourable toward the sector’s earnings outlook. Its performance contributed significantly to the index's upward trajectory.
LON:BT.A Advances Amid Market Chatter
Telecom heavyweight (LON:BT.A) posted solid gains following market speculation over a strategic development involving rival (LON:TALK). Although no formal announcements were made, the increased market activity surrounding the stock lifted it into one of the top-performing positions for the session.
LON:HLMA Rises on Strong Financial Performance
(LON:HLMA), operating within the precision equipment manufacturing space, recorded a notable move higher after releasing full-year figures. The company highlighted record-level revenue, reinforcing the strength of its business model. The gains reflect positive reception to its performance update.
LON:TSCO Climbs After Trading Statement
Retail chain (LON:TSCO) also saw upward movement in its share price, buoyed by a favourable trading update. The stock, often associated with consistent payouts, remains on the radar for FTSE Dividend Stocks, offering visibility within income-focused segments of the market.
Retail and Aviation Names Among Top Fallers
At the other end of the spectrum, LON:JD. faced sharp declines, placing it at the bottom of the FTSE 100 leaderboard. The stock struggled following a lacklustre performance in recent trading. LON:EZJ also trended lower, as sentiment around the airline sector turned cautious.
Sentiment Data Shows Cooling Optimism in June
Fresh confidence readings showed a modest pullback in UK market sentiment for June, reversing part of the sharp improvement seen in May. The broader FTSE 350 also reflected this tempered mood, as some market participants reassessed recent macroeconomic signals. Across the European region, similar softness in sentiment emerged, pointing to a cautious stance among participants in wider continental markets.
