Gains for steel and M&S leave FTSE up

clock

The FTSE 100 made a minor gain at the end of the week to hold its position over 5000, thanks to a ratings boost for Marks & Spencer.

The FTSE 100 made a minor gain at the end of the week to hold its position over 5000, thanks to a ratings boost for Marks & Spencer. The UK’s benchmark index earned just 5 points to 5005 by close of business in London, but it was enough to show some of the larger firms enjoyed positive gains for potential business in 2005. Marks & Spencer rose 7.5p or 2.07% to 369.75p after Lehman Brothers suggested investors should buy the high street retailers shares. Steel maker Corus also received a nice boost as CSFB suggested Chinese demand for steel will continue. Corus closed up 2.75p or 4....

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • 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

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Investment

How quality investing behaves through the cycle

How quality investing behaves through the cycle

Resilience when it matters more

Joseph Stephens and Laura Neill
clock 14 September 2026 • 4 min read
Why portfolios need to evolve, not revolve when it comes to client outcomes

Why portfolios need to evolve, not revolve when it comes to client outcomes

'As market structures evolve, so must portfolio construction'

Ed Senior
clock 11 September 2026 • 4 min read
What does 'quality' investing actually mean?

What does 'quality' investing actually mean?

Why persistence is the real test

Joseph Stephens and Laura Neill
clock 11 September 2026 • 4 min read