FX.co ★ FTSE 100 Posts Best Year Since 2009

The FTSE 100 concluded the final session of 2025 at 9,931 points, just shy of its all-time high, marking an impressive 21.6% gain for the year—its most robust performance since 2009. Meanwhile, the FTSE 250, which is more oriented towards domestic companies, also saw an increase, achieving a 9% rise over the past year. This upward trend in the markets mirrored a strong investor sentiment and the competitive edge of UK firms, despite the challenging conditions of decelerating economic growth, persistent inflation, and pressured public finances. The gains were predominantly driven by precious metals mining companies, with Fresnillo skyrocketing 436%, Endeavour ascending 172%, and Antofagasta climbing 106%, all buoyed by heightened safe-haven demand and reduced US interest rates. Additionally, defense contractor Babcock experienced a 148% increase, while the luxury brand Burberry advanced 30% as it made progress in its turnaround strategy. However, the market saw significant divergences in performance: Greggs tumbled 40%, advertising giant WPP plummeted 59%, and retailer WH Smith decreased by 46%.