The FTSE 100 gained about 0.3% on Friday, tracking a broader advance across European markets as investors looked ahead to Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh’s closely watched speech at Jackson Hole for guidance on the future path of interest rates and the US economy. Banks, energy firms and miners underpinned the move higher, although the UK blue-chip index slightly lagged its continental counterparts.
Mining shares were boosted by firmer metals prices, with Endeavour climbing more than 2%, Fresnillo up roughly 1.7%, and both Antofagasta and Anglo American advancing more than 1%. In the energy sector, Shell and BP posted only modest gains as Brent crude remained below $90 a barrel. Among the banks, HSBC rose about 1%, while Lloyds’ latest business barometer provided further signs of resilient corporate confidence.
Despite Friday’s rise, the FTSE 100 is still heading for a monthly loss, putting an end to its four-month winning streak.
