U.K. stocks achieved modest gains during cautious trading on Monday as investors processed the unexpected outcome of France's recent snap election and anticipated key forthcoming events, including Fed Chair Jerome Powell's Congressional testimony and the release of U.S. CPI data. These events are expected to offer greater clarity regarding the Fed's future monetary policy actions.
The benchmark FTSE 100 increased by 15 points, or 0.2%, reaching 8,219 after a 0.5% decline on Friday.
Britvic experienced a substantial rise, jumping 4.6%, following Danish brewer Carlsberg's agreement to acquire the British soft drinks manufacturer for £3.3 billion ($4.23 billion).
Marston's saw an impressive surge of 16% after the pub and hotel operator divested its 40% stake in its brewing joint venture with Carlsberg.
Conversely, energy giants BP Plc and Shell saw declines, with BP dropping 1.3% and Shell losing 0.7%, as crude oil prices declined after a four-week rally.
HgCapital Trust gained approximately 1%, bolstered by the private equity trust's agreement to sell its remaining investment in the business software company TeamSystem.
