FX.co ★ FTSE 100 Steadies at Record High

The FTSE 100 experienced minimal changes on Friday after hitting a record high in the previous session, yet it gained approximately 2.5% over the week. The index was bolstered by positive UK economic data, as September's retail sales added to optimism fueled by improved public finance figures and reduced inflation, indicating that consumers remain robust. Shares of NatWest surged nearly 4% following the bank's report of better-than-expected profits, an upgraded forecast for 2025 income and returns, and strong performance across its business segments. This update echoed the general strength observed in the banking sector, which continues to benefit from sustained higher interest rates. Shares of the London Stock Exchange (LSE) rose more than 4%, building on a 6.7% increase the previous day following strong results. Conversely, GSK's shares dipped by more than 1%, despite receiving US approval for its blood cancer drug Blenrep, as analysts expressed caution regarding regulatory complexities. Precious metal miners Fresnillo and Endeavour saw declines of 2.5% and 0.9%, respectively, as gold prices receded from record highs.