The FTSE 100 climbed more than 1% on Thursday, lifted by upbeat corporate news. Standard Chartered advanced 3.8% after reporting record profits, Unilever gained 1.6% on the back of resilient emerging market sales, Rolls-Royce jumped 7% following a robust outlook, and Glencore added 1.6% thanks to an improved trading performance.
Meanwhile, the Bank of England left interest rates unchanged at 3.75%, in line with market expectations. Policymakers said rates are currently in a “reasonable place” and reiterated that they “stand ready” to act if necessary to keep inflation in line with the 2% target over the medium term. Guidance was broadly unchanged, with officials emphasizing continued vigilance over inflation risks stemming from energy prices.
Chief Economist Huw Pill cast the sole vote for a rate increase, arguing that a “prompt but modest” hike could help guard against inflationary pressures arising from the energy shock. Following the announcement, traders pared back expectations for additional near-term rate hikes.
