FTSE 100 Slips Amidst Global Market Tensions

The UK's FTSE 100 fell on Monday due to downgrades of Rolls-Royce and Unilever, marking a challenging week filled with significant global data releases including the anticipated U.S. jobs report. Despite a fourth consecutive yearly rise, market tensions persist ahead of pivotal economic developments.

On Monday, the UK's FTSE 100 index witnessed a slight decline, influenced by the downgrading of prominent stocks like Rolls-Royce and Unilever, amidst a week teeming with critical global data releases.

The index fell by 0.2% as aerospace and defence sectors, significant components of the FTSE 350, suffered losses, notably with Rolls-Royce dropping 2.8% after a Citigroup downgrade. Unilever also dragged the index, easing 1.7% following an RBC downgrade.

Despite these setbacks, the FTSE 100 has maintained a positive trajectory with nearly a 6% rise in 2024. However, market sentiments are mixed due to the implications of the UK budget and future U.S. policies under President Trump, alongside key data awaited from the U.S. nonfarm payrolls report.

(With inputs from agencies.)