01.04.202607:43:58UTC+00FTSE 100 Extends Gains for 3rd Session

The FTSE 100 climbed 1.8% to a two-week high on Wednesday, lifted by growing optimism over a possible de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East. If the gains are sustained, it would mark the index’s longest winning streak since the conflict began in late February, with the benchmark on track for a third consecutive advance.

Risk appetite improved after President Donald Trump said he expects the confrontation with Iran could be resolved within two to three weeks. Nonetheless, uncertainty persists around the Strait of Hormuz, where ongoing disruptions continue to affect global oil supplies, even as Brent crude has slipped below $100 per barrel.

Financial and travel stocks led the rally, while oil majors BP and Shell acted as a drag on the index. In corporate news, Babcock secured a six-month agreement with the UK Ministry of Defence, and Berkeley reiterated its guidance while signalling a more cautious stance on future land acquisitions.