FTSE 100 Rises on UK GDP and Cooler US Inflation

By EC Assets · Published 30 September 2026

British stocks advanced today, with the FTSE 100 index moving higher. This increase follows data showing cooler-than-expected U.S. inflation. UK economic growth also surpassed forecasts, contributing to the market’s positive performance. The FTSE 100 experienced gains after data indicated that the UK economy grew more rapidly than anticipated in the second quarter. British stocks also edged up due to a slowdown in UK shop price inflation. Lingering U.S.-Iran uncertainty had previously offset some market sentiment. FTSE 100 futures showed an increase of 66 points, reaching 10,743.5. U.S. stock futures edged lower as investors awaited inflation data. The main inflation gauge used by the Federal Reserve to set U.S. interest rates rose sharply in August. This rise underscored the central bank's decision to increase interest rates earlier this month for the first time in three years. Asian markets were mostly higher, driven by a rally in technology shares. Wall Street closed modestly lower in a prior session. Gold rebounded, while oil held near US$96. Oil had previously slid on an emergency release, causing stocks to jump. The UK GDP was revised, with data showing it beat forecasts. Miners led the gains in the market. Bonds suffered a bruising September, but stocks demonstrated resilience during the same period. A prominent economist embraces artificial intelligence in portfolios. This economist prefers U.S. tech and gold over bonds. Investors have become accustomed to returns distorted by artificially low interest rates. One strategist now finds value in U.S. Treasury notes, citing a "big fat cushion" of 5.25% yields. This strategist had been negative on Treasury bonds since 2020. U.S.-Iran relations remain a focal point. Trump denies offering Iran sanctions relief. Tehran has received a U.S. proposal following Qatar talks. Iran reports it has received an official U.S. response to its latest peace proposal. This article is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice.