FTSE 100 today: Stocks rise as UK GDP beats forecasts, miners lead
The FTSE 100 rose 0.70% as UK GDP grew 0.5% in Q2, beating forecasts. Miners led gains, with Rio Tinto and Antofagasta rising 2.1% and 2.7% respectively. Brent crude fell 0.88% to $95.31. Saga's H1 profit nearly doubled, while Greggs raised its 2026 outlook but plans job cuts. Pinewood Technologies reported a wider H1 loss.
How this was made
The 30-second read
Why it matters
The data suggests stronger economic activity, boosting commodity demand and consumer confidence, which lifted related equities.
Market read
UK GDP surprise fuels a risk‑on environment, lifting European equities and commodity‑linked stocks.
What to watch
Potential headwinds from higher UK borrowing and geopolitical tensions may dampen longer‑term gains.
Background
UK Q2 GDP beat forecasts, prompting a 0.7% rise in the FTSE 100 and sector‑wide gains in miners and travel stocks.
Ticker impact
Rio Tinto rose 2.1% as miners led the FTSE 100 gain after UK GDP beat forecasts.
likely upside as market prices in higher commodity demand expectations.
Miner stocks typically rally on better‑than‑expected GDP data that signals higher industrial activity.
InterContinental Hotels Group rose 2.3% as part of the FTSE gain after UK GDP beat forecasts.
short‑term upside as risk sentiment improves.
Travel‑related equities often rise with better macro data that hints at higher consumer spending.
Market effects
Commodity and travel sectors see short‑term bullish pressure from stronger UK GDP.
UK equities rise, boosting European market sentiment.
Positive UK data supports risk‑on bias globally, modestly lifting risk assets.
Counterpoint
If UK growth proves unsustainable, miner rally could reverse quickly.
Key entities
- government agencyOffice for National Statistics
Provided the UK GDP figures.
- indexFTSE 100
Benchmark index that rose 0.70% on the news.
