FX.co ★ FTSE 100 Hovers at Record High After BoE Decision

The FTSE 100 traded higher on Thursday, hovering near record levels after the Bank of England voted 6–3 to keep the Bank Rate unchanged at 3.75%, surprising markets that had expected a 7–2 split. Earnings reports were another key driver of price action. Shell rose about 1.1% after posting its strongest quarterly profit since early 2022 and announcing a new share buyback programme. Rolls-Royce jumped more than 5% after upgrading its 2026 guidance, while BAE Systems added around 1% on the back of an improved sales outlook. Lloyds Banking Group advanced 1% after beating profit forecasts, unveiling a new five-year strategy, and launching a £1 billion share buyback.

On the downside, London Stock Exchange Group dropped nearly 4% despite lifting guidance and announcing a £1.4 billion buyback. British American Tobacco, Haleon, and Rentokil Initial also retreated following their earnings updates, with Rentokil slumping more than 16% after issuing a cautious outlook, even though it met profit expectations.