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FTSE 100 Rises Amid Middle East Tensions, Oil Prices Surge

3/4/2026

35 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The FTSE 100 rose 0.2% as tensions in the Middle East persisted, with its defensive profile aided by revenue from foreign currencies and a weaker pound.
The U.K. remains vulnerable to rising energy prices, with natural gas futures spiking 40% after QatarEnergy suspended production.
The FTSE 250 dropped 3% on losses in Vistry Group.
Oil prices rose amid the conflict, fueling inflation concerns and potentially affecting interest rate policies.

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Story summary

The FTSE 100 rose 0.2% as tensions in the Middle East persisted, with its defensive profile aided by revenue from foreign currencies and a weaker pound.
The U.K. remains vulnerable to rising energy prices, with natural gas futures spiking 40% after QatarEnergy suspended production.
The FTSE 250 dropped 3% on losses in Vistry Group.
Oil prices rose amid the conflict, fueling inflation concerns and potentially affecting interest rate policies.