Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news
The UK’s blue-chip stock index has hit a fresh record high this morning, lifted by some upbeat company news.
Engineering firm Rolls-Royce is among the top risers, up 5.5% to a new record after reporting a 40% jump profits last year, as its turnaround plan pays off. It also cheered shareholders by upgrading its mid-term financial targets.
“Our transformation continues with pace and intensity. We are consistently achieving outcomes that were not possible before our transformation. With our new capabilities and mindset, we have navigated challenges from supply chain to tariffs, and delivered a strong performance in 2025, all while we built the foundations for significant growth for years to come.”
