FTSE 350 Rises as BP and Reckitt Benckiser Announce Strategic Divestments

3 min read | July 18, 2025 10:01 AM BST | By Team Kalkine Media

Highlights

  • GSK (GSK) moves lower following regulatory update

  • BP (BP.) climbs after wind asset sale announcement

  • Reckitt Benckiser (RKT) gains on partial home division exit

The FTSE 350 advanced during Friday’s session, reflecting strength across key sectors including energy, consumer goods, and healthcare. Movement in several prominent names such as BP (BP.), Reckitt Benckiser (RKT), and Senior (SNR) contributed to overall index gains, while GSK (GSK) posted a notable decline amid updates in the healthcare space.

Healthcare Sector Draws Focus After Advisory Panel Outcome

GSK (LON:GSK), listed on the FTSE 350, experienced a decline following the outcome of a regulatory panel’s review of its oncology treatment, Blenrep. The panel did not support approval at the proposed dosage, creating short-term pressure around the pharmaceutical major. While the agency’s final decision is pending, the development influenced sentiment in the healthcare segment.

Energy Segment Sees Upward Movement on Asset Divestment

BP (LON:BP), also part of the FTSE 350, saw gains after confirming the divestment of its US onshore wind energy business. The move reflects an ongoing reallocation of energy assets and streamlining of the company’s renewable energy approach. Though financial details remain undisclosed, the announcement marked a notable step in BP's restructuring across its clean energy focus areas.

Consumer Goods Performance Lifted by Streamlining Strategy

Reckitt Benckiser (LON:RKT) rose after disclosing the sale of a majority stake in its Essential Home business to a global group. The home division, which includes widely known household brands, remains partially retained by the company, signaling a shift in operational priorities. The transaction has placed the spotlight on efforts to refine business portfolios within the consumer goods sector.

Engineering Group Advances on Business Realignment

Senior (LON:SNR), trading on the FTSE 350, recorded a strong performance following news of the sale of its Aerostructures division. The decision supports the company’s strategy to streamline operations and enhance financial flexibility. The business update included confirmation of future capital initiatives, adding momentum to its industrial segment performance during the session.

AIM Segment Strengthened by Corporate Appointment

Hamak Gold (HAMA), listed on the FTSE AIM UK 50 INDEX, saw an uptick after the introduction of a new advisory board member with notable economic credentials. The announcement has added visibility to the company’s leadership as it focuses on advancing its exploration projects.

Corporate Actions Shape Broader Market Sentiment

The rise in the FTSE 350 during Friday’s session was supported by a wave of corporate developments across multiple sectors. While healthcare updates weighed on GSK (GSK), restructuring announcements from BP (BP.), Reckitt Benckiser (RKT), and Senior (SNR) drove strength in energy, consumer, and industrial names. This activity contributed to broader gains across the index, with both large and mid-cap names responding to internal strategic shifts.


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