FTSE 100 nears record high ahead of inflation data

After a rally of more than 5% in 2023 so far, the blue-chip index entered the week just 33 points from its all-time closing high of 7,877.45 According to data from MarketWatch, the index rose 0.1% at the open on Monday, less than 1% away from record highs. The FTSE 250 mid-cap index rose 0.2%. Consumer goods like Diageo and British American Tobacco, which increased by 0.4% and 0.8%, respectively, were among the top gainers, while banks added a 0.4% boost. Marks & Spencer rose 0.4% in response to news of its plans to open 20 new stores throughout Britain, creating 3,400 new jobs. ...