AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
FRA
GER
ESP
ITA
NLD
PRT
SWE
GRC
IND
POL
BRA
ZAF
RUS
CHN
UAE
Highlights
FTSE 100 remained marginally higher while broader European indices stayed flat during midday trade.
UK wage growth eased and unemployment increased, indicating a softer labour market.
Retail sales rose strongly year-on-year, driven by seasonal factors including a later Easter.
The FTSE 100 Index registered a slight rise during midday trading, maintaining momentum despite mixed global cues and local economic data. The index, which tracks leading blue-chip stocks, showed limited gains as market participants weighed the implications of recent tariff developments and a cooling domestic labour market. Equities across Europe were largely unchanged, and several Asian indices experienced pullbacks. Futures pointed to a subdued opening on Wall Street.
US-China Tariff Pause and Market Reaction
Global markets had previously advanced on expectations of easing US-China trade restrictions. However, gains moderated as it became clear that certain tariffs would remain in effect, maintaining a level of trade friction. This ongoing uncertainty weighed on market sentiment and contributed to the slower performance in both European and Asian stock indices.
UK Employment and Earnings Data
Fresh data from the national statistics office indicated a softening labour market. The unemployment rate rose, reaching the highest level recorded in several quarters. Simultaneously, growth in average regular earnings excluding bonuses eased, with similar moderation observed in earnings that include bonuses.
Officials noted that wage growth remained relatively strong overall, although the gap between public and private sector pay had narrowed. The broader employment picture reflected declining payroll numbers and continued decreases in job vacancies. The rate of vacancy reduction has accelerated in recent months, suggesting a shift in hiring dynamics.
Retail Sector Sees Seasonal Boost
UK retail activity improved significantly, with total sales climbing sharply compared to the previous year. The increase was largely attributed to calendar effects, as Easter holidays shifted from March to April. Warmer weather and seasonal spending patterns further contributed to higher consumer outlays.
Over a combined two-month period encompassing both March and April, sales growth remained notably above the previous year’s levels, indicating sustained demand across retail categories. This performance was reflected in movements within the Ftse Aim 100 Index, where several retail-related companies showed strong upward momentum.
Stock Performances Across the Index
(LSE:ENT) saw notable intraday gains, following a favourable re-rating from a major financial institution. The firm, which owns well-known betting brands, climbed to the top of the FTSE 100. In the mid-cap space, (LSE:RS1) experienced similar momentum, leading the FTSE 250 following an upgrade from a prominent research firm.
Meanwhile, (LSE:WIX) reported a strong start to the financial year. The home improvement retailer recorded a measurable increase in revenue for the early months of the period, citing resilient demand from both trade and DIY customers.
On the downside, (LSE:DCC) declined after reporting full-year revenues that came in below expectations. The company, active in the marketing and support services segment, faced investor reaction tied to these results.
(LSE:BYIT) also traded lower despite announcing a special dividend and raising its full-year payout. The company reported double-digit growth in profits, but shares moved downward during midday trading.
Movements across the Ftse Aim 100 Index and broader London-listed equities reflected a cautious trading environment, influenced by both international policy signals and domestic economic developments.
