FTSE plunges 3%; Sterling falls to year low

clock

The UK's hung parliament on top of the Greek debt crisis weighed heavily on investor sentiment today as the FTSE plunged dramatically in afternoon trading.

As at 16.00 GMT, London's leading share index dropped 2.78%, or 169 points, to 5114 as the indecisive election result combined with persistent fears of Greek contagion to push the index sharply down. Earlier in the afternoon, the index was down more than 3%. Despite posting Q1 profits of £713m, nationalised bank RBS is leading the charge into the red, down 7.96%. Yesterday, ratings agency Moody's warned UK banks could have their credit ratings downgraded because of the poor state of public finances and contagion from the Greek debt crisis. Fears the country has been impacted by the Gr...

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 Economics / Markets

Bank of England warns of future rate uncertainty after vote to hold at 3.75%

Bank of England warns of future rate uncertainty after vote to hold at 3.75%

One vote to hike rates

Michael Nelson
clock 30 April 2026 • 2 min read
Navigating an uncertain environment: Applying a disciplined, data-driven approach

Navigating an uncertain environment: Applying a disciplined, data-driven approach

'​Looking ahead, the fundamental case remains constructive'

Fahad Hassan
clock 28 April 2026 • 2 min read
UK inflation rises to 3.3% in March as Iran conflict impacts fuel prices

UK inflation rises to 3.3% in March as Iran conflict impacts fuel prices

Motor fuel rose 4.7%

Michael Nelson
clock 22 April 2026 • 2 min read