The FTSE 100 traded higher on Thursday, hovering near record levels after the Bank of England voted 6–3 to keep the Bank Rate unchanged at 3.75%, surprising markets that had expected a 7–2 split. Earnings reports were another key driver of price action. Shell rose about 1.1% after posting its strongest quarterly profit since early 2022 and announcing a new share buyback programme. Rolls-Royce jumped more than 5% after upgrading its 2026 guidance, while BAE Systems added around 1% on the back of an improved sales outlook. Lloyds Banking Group advanced 1% after beating profit forecasts, unveiling a new five-year strategy, and launching a £1 billion share buyback.
On the downside, London Stock Exchange Group dropped nearly 4% despite lifting guidance and announcing a £1.4 billion buyback. British American Tobacco, Haleon, and Rentokil Initial also retreated following their earnings updates, with Rentokil slumping more than 16% after issuing a cautious outlook, even though it met profit expectations.
