The FTSE 100 is set for minor gains on the week as sterling weakness supports London’s leading index.

Concerns over a No deal Brexit and the threat of a general election hit the pound sending it beneath 1.3000 against the dollar. On Thursday GBP/USD hit the lowest level since October following hawkish comments from Federal Reserve Chair Powell suggesting the Fed would continue with rate hikes due to a robust US economy.

Sterling weakness has been one of the biggest influences on the FTSE 100 since the vote to leave the EU as exporting shares benefit from a weaker pound, boosting earnings.

Despite the boost from weaker sterling, the FTSE 100 has failed to break out of a tight trading range where it has been held since mid-June.

The 7700-7730 region has proved to be a strong level of resistance with rallies failing in this region on multiple occasions in the past four weeks.

The biggest risers on the week include Unilever, Just Eat and Ocado all up over 3%. Unilever yesterday announced an increase in sales despite feeling the impact of striking workers in Brazil.

Previous articleWH Ireland shares tumble on financial loss
Next articleDonald Trump trade comments send FTSE 100 lower
Avatar photo
This is the profile of the UK Investor Magazine team who, in collaboration with each other and our partners, produce a number of in-depth analytical articles, reviews of investment services and publish sponsored articles from carefully selected partners.