The FTSE 100 index gained 51.70 points to 4,462.40 by the close after employment figures from the US showed the biggest monthly increase in new jobs since early 2000.
More than eight out of every 10 stocks in the FTSE 100 closed the day higher. British Airways climbed 13.25p to 298p on hopes more jobs in the US will lead to more trans-Atlantic travel on BA’s core long-haul routes. A report showed traffic increased in Europe in February. Prudential gained 18p to 468p after reporting its chief executive Jonathan Bloomer earned less in 2003 than Michael McLintock, head of its M&G fund management unit. BHP Billiton gained most from the dollar’s rise on currency markets sparked by the employment numbers. The miner added 18.5p to 526p. Mortgage len...
To continue reading this article...
Join Professional Adviser for free
Signup and gain exclusive members-only insights
- Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
- Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
- Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
- Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
- Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
- Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes
