The FTSE 100 rose 1.7% to a two-week high on Wednesday, supported by growing optimism over a potential de-escalation in Middle East tensions. It marks the index’s longest winning streak since the war began in late February, with the benchmark up for a third straight session. Sentiment improved after President Donald Trump said he expects the conflict with Iran could end within two to three weeks. However, uncertainty remains around the Strait of Hormuz, where disruptions continue to affect global oil supply despite Brent easing below $100 per barrel. Financial and travel stocks led the advance, while oil majors BP and Shell weighed on the index. In corporate updates, Babcock secured a six month agreement with the UK Ministry of Defence, and Berkeley reaffirmed its outlook while signaling a more cautious approach to land acquisitions.
