AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
FRA
GER
ESP
ITA
NLD
PRT
SWE
GRC
IND
POL
BRA
ZAF
RUS
CHN
UAE
Highlights
FTSE 100 edges higher, supported by oil majors and financial stocks
Entain (LON:ENT) raises guidance for US-based BetMGM venture
Global markets remain steady despite continued Middle East tensions
The FTSE 100 opened the new week in positive territory, advancing despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty stemming from the Israel-Iran conflict. The performance was led by gains in oil majors and select financials, while investors responded calmly to elevated oil prices and cautious optimism in global equities.
The FTSE 350 also reflected this broader sentiment, showing resilience across sectors that typically benefit from inflationary pressures or commodity upswings. Gains in the early session were supported by stability in global markets and renewed attention to corporate updates from heavyweight constituents.
Entain Leads FTSE 100 as BetMGM Forecasts Lifted
Entain PLC (LON:ENT) was the standout performer on the blue-chip index following an update on its joint venture with BetMGM in the United States. The company confirmed a revised outlook for full-year revenue and earnings, with online sports betting and iGaming expected to contribute positively.
The upbeat forecast reflects continued growth in digital entertainment and online gambling segments, particularly in the US where regulatory frameworks have expanded. Entain's performance lifted sentiment across the leisure and consumer services space, as broader investor interest returns to gaming and sports-related digital ventures.
Oil Majors Boost Index as Energy Prices Stay Elevated
Major oil players such as BP PLC (LON:BP). and Shell PLC (LON:SHEL), (NYSE:SHEL) added strength to the FTSE 100, buoyed by sustained high oil prices. Ongoing hostilities in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Iran, have intensified concerns about regional energy supply, keeping crude prices near recent highs.
These gains provided a firm base for the index, particularly as energy remains a critical driver of UK market sentiment. Traders continued to monitor global developments closely, with energy stocks acting as a safe haven amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Banking Stocks Also Move Higher on Market Optimism
Financials were also active in early trade, with gains observed across major banking names including Standard Chartered, Barclays, NatWest and Lloyds. The momentum reflects renewed confidence in core lending and capital markets divisions, alongside sector resilience amid global policy shifts.
Rising interest in financial stocks comes at a time when economic sentiment is being reshaped by central bank actions and global trade narratives. The banking sector’s gains lent additional support to the UK benchmark indices, reinforcing the broader risk-on sentiment.
Peel Hunt Returns to Profitability Amid Challenging Market Backdrop
Peel Hunt Ltd AIM:PEEL reported an improvement in underlying performance, marking a return to profit after a previously difficult period. The City-based investment firm noted revenue gains despite subdued initial public offering activity, advising on a small number of high-profile listings and mergers.
Its client base includes several members of the FTSE 350, and the firm continues to highlight its focus on diversification and long-term advisory relationships. Management acknowledged ongoing market challenges but indicated positive progress in strategic positioning and revenue mix.
Muted Global Reaction to Middle East Escalation
Despite a third consecutive day of military exchanges between Israel and Iran, the reaction from global equity markets has remained measured. European equities opened firmer, with Asian counterparts also reflecting moderate gains. Tokyo’s Nikkei and India’s Sensex posted advances, while mixed Chinese data held back gains in mainland exchanges.
Oil and gold prices remain elevated, reflecting broader investor caution. However, equity markets have not displayed widespread retreat, with defensive sectors and commodities balancing the scales. In Europe, defence-related equities continue to attract attention amid geopolitical developments and strategic cooperation discussions.
