Consumer confidence appears to have taken a big hit in the run-up to next month’s Budget. The reversal comes despite stable inflation and the prospect of further cuts in interest rates. GfK consumer insights director Neil Bellamy said: “Following the withdrawal of the winter fuel payments,

Retail sales rally before setback to consumer morale 07:24 , Graeme Evans Warmer weather and end-of-season sales helped supermarkets and clothing retailers to drive today’s better-than-expected retail sales performance.

The FTSE 100 climbed to a two-week peak, buoyed by increased U.S. interest rate cut bets and robust domestic retail shares after Kingfisher's improved forecast. The blue-chip index rose by 0.7%, spurred by gains in automobile and retail sectors.

The policy guidance in Thursday’s minutes showed that, among those voting for a hold, the majority view was that more cuts are needed. “For most members, in the absence of material developments, a gradual approach to removing policy restraint would be warranted,

A surge in risk appetite swept the FTSE 100 index higher today as traders cheered last night’s super-sized interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve. The message from central bank chief Jerome Powell that the 0.

The FTSE 100 reached a two-week high due to optimistic forecasts from Kingfisher and speculation about a significant U.S. interest rate cut. The index rose by 0.7%, supported mainly by gains in the automobile and retail sectors.

The FTSE 100 rose higher in early trade after the Fed backed a 50 basis point cut last night, the first rate reduction since 2020.