The FTSE 100 outperformed global markets, rising 0.3% as several companies saw gains following strong annual results. The index was on track for its fourth consecutive day of gains and a weekly increase of 1.4%.
British Airways’ parent company, IAG, led the charge, surging 5.3% after reporting a 27% jump in annual operating profit, surpassing market expectations, and announcing a share buyback program.
Engineering firm IMI also climbed 5% after unveiling a 10% dividend increase from 2023 levels and launching a new share buyback initiative.
Following a strong 6% rally in January, the FTSE 100 is set to close February with a modest gain of over 1%, continuing its positive trajectory into 2025.
Meanwhile, European markets faced pressure after President Trump confirmed a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, set to take effect on March 4, alongside an additional 10% duty on Chinese goods.
The Cac 40 in Paris and the DAX in Frankfurt both slipped 0.4%.
Investor attention will now turn to U.S. Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) data, which could offer key insights into future Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions.
If anyone reads this article found it useful, helpful? Then please subscribe www.share-talk.com or follow SHARE TALK on our Twitter page for future updates.
Terms of Website Use
All information is provided on an as-is basis. Where we allow Bloggers to publish articles on our platform please note these are not our opinions or views and we have no affiliation with the companies mentioned