Index Update: The FTSE 100 index, a key benchmark index for the London stock exchange, was trading rose around 0.48% on 16 March 2026. 

Macro Update: UK economic growth stalled at 0.0% in early 2026, hampered by a geopolitical energy shock and rising unemployment (5.2%). While manufacturing shows resilience, high interest rates (3.75%) and inflation risks from oil price spikes have dampened consumer confidence, leaving the Treasury and Bank of England facing a fragile, low-growth outlook. 

Top Market Movers: Among top gainers on FTSE 100 index, Haleon PLC (LSE: HLN) witnessed a rise of 2.83% followed by Segro PLX (LSE: SGRO) which gained around 2.82%. 

Commodity Update: The U.S. dollar remained near a 10-month high on Monday as global markets turned cautious ahead of several key central bank meetings this week. Policymakers from the U.S. Federal Reserve, European Central Bank, Bank of England and Bank of Japan are scheduled to decide on interest rates amid rising geopolitical tensions linked to the U.S.–Israel conflict with Iran. Meanwhile, gold fell 1.10% to USD 5,006.60, silver dropped 2.27% to USD 79.49, copper eased 0.43%, while Brent crude rose 1.24% to USD 104.42. 

Our Stance: The UK faces a stagnant economic outlook. While manufacturing offers a rare bright spot, growth has stalled amid a 5.2% unemployment rate and renewed energy shocks. With inflation risks rising and consumer confidence plunging, the Bank of England maintains a cautious, high-rate stance to stabilize the fragile recovery. 

FTSE 100: The FTSE 100 Index is trading near 10,305.36, lower by 26.64 points (0.26%) in the session. Technically, the index remains below its 20-day moving average around 10,545.15 and the 50-day moving average near 10,362.24, indicating softer short-term momentum. The RSI near 44.03 also suggests subdued momentum following the recent pullback. On the downside, the 10,000–10,050 zone may act as near-term support, while 10,500–10,700 could limit upward movement in the short term.  

Source: Charts by EODHD/Others 

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