Index Update: The FTSE 100 index, a key benchmark index for the London stock exchange, was trading rose around 0.18% on 13 March 2026. 

Macro Update: The UK economy stalled in January 2026 with 0.0% GDP growth, as services slumped and manufacturing contracted. While inflation fell to 3.0%, geopolitical tension has pushed oil over $100, delaying expected interest rate cuts. Consequently, the 3.75% base rate remains, leaving the housing market fragile and unemployment rising to 5.2%. 

Top Market Movers: Among top gainers on FTSE 100 index, Leal & General Group PLC (LSE: LGEN) witnessed a rise of 2.78% followed by Vodafone Group PLC (LSE: VOD) which gained around 2.55%. 

Commodity Update: The U.S. dollar remained firm on Friday, heading toward its second weekly advance since tensions escalated in Iran, as global uncertainty supported demand for safe-haven assets. In commodities, gold slipped 0.22% to USD 5,114.70, silver declined 0.62% to USD 84.58, and copper eased 0.31% to USD 12,944.59. Meanwhile, Brent crude fell 0.71% to USD 99.75 after the U.S. granted a 30-day license allowing countries to purchase Russian oil shipments currently stranded at sea. 

Our Stance: The UK faces a stagnant economy with 0% January growth. While inflation eased to 3.0%, rising global oil prices and a 5.2% unemployment rate keep the Bank of England cautious. High interest rates at 3.75% continue to squeeze the housing market and dampen business investment. 

FTSE 100: The FTSE 100 Index is trading around 10,315.42, gaining about 10.27 points (+0.10%) in the latest session. Technically, the index remains below its 20-day moving average near 10,556.28, indicating that short-term momentum is still somewhat restrained despite the modest uptick. Meanwhile, the RSI stands near 43.89, suggesting neutral-to-soft momentum conditions rather than strong buying pressure.  

Source: Charts by EODHD/Others 

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