27.02.202617:03:02UTC+00FTSE 100 Advances for 8th Month

The FTSE 100 rose 0.7% to around 10,923 on Friday, setting a new record high and closing out an eighth consecutive monthly advance—its longest winning streak since 2013. The index gained about 6.8% in May, its strongest monthly performance since 2022.

Among blue chips, pharmaceuticals outperformed, with AstraZeneca up 2.6% and GlaxoSmithKline 1.3% higher. Energy majors Shell and BP also strengthened as crude oil notched a second straight monthly gain.

Stocks tied to artificial intelligence themes rallied, including London Stock Exchange Group (+5.3%), RELX (+1.6%), Rightmove (+4.7%), Pearson (+1.4%) and Experian (+0.5%). Rightmove reported higher revenue and announced a new share buyback program.

Consumer staples Unilever and British American Tobacco advanced, while industrial names such as Rolls-Royce and defence contractor BAE Systems also moved higher.

In contrast, major lenders including HSBC Holdings, Barclays and Lloyds Banking Group declined. Melrose Industries tumbled nearly 13% after issuing cautious guidance.

On the macro side, GfK survey data pointed to weakening consumer confidence. Politically, a by-election victory for the Green Party of England and Wales increased pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government.