FTSE 100 Gains Amid Strait of Hormuz Shipping Progress
The FTSE 100 index rose for the third consecutive session, nearing record levels as investors reacted positively to developments regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Iran and Oman have reportedly reached an agreement on a proposed shipping route through this strategic waterway, which is under review. This progress has bolstered market sentiment. Key stocks such as Persimmon and BAE Systems saw significant gains, while pharmaceutical giants AstraZeneca and GSK also contributed to the index's rise. However, mining stocks faced pressure, and oil majors remained stable as crude prices steadied.