FX.co ★ FTSE 100 Edges Up, Trades at Record Levels

The FTSE 100 experienced a modest increase on Wednesday, marking its third consecutive day of gains and remaining above the 9,900 level. SSE surged by more than 12%, reaching an all-time high following the announcement of a £2 billion share issuance intended to support its ambitious £33 billion investment program through 2030, concentrating on UK power networks and renewable energy. Despite experiencing reduced profits due to weaker inflation adjustments and unfavorable weather conditions, analysts from Jefferies regarded the move as a "clear positive," boosting investor confidence in the company's financial health. BAE Systems saw a slight uptick after reaffirming its guidance, bolstered by £27 billion in orders for 2025 and fresh agreements with Turkey and Norway. Experian also experienced gains after revising its revenue outlook upwards, driven by AI-enhanced growth and robust business-to-business performance. In the FTSE 250, Avon Technologies rose by as much as 11% after surpassing profit expectations, a result of strong demand and a healthy order book. Conversely, homebuilders faced declines, with Taylor Wimpey falling nearly 4% due to softened housing market conditions in anticipation of the forthcoming UK budget.