Daijiworld Media Network - London

London, Jan 2: The UK’s benchmark FTSE 100 index created history on Friday by crossing the 10,000-point mark for the first time, touching a fresh all-time high on the opening trading day of 2026.

In early trade, the blue-chip index climbed 1 per cent to 10,033.75 points, marking a major milestone for the London stock market, according to AFP. The index comprises leading companies such as BP, Vodafone and HSBC.

The landmark surge comes on the back of a stellar performance in 2025, when the FTSE 100 gained over 21 per cent — its strongest annual rise in 16 years. The rally was driven by interest rate cuts in the UK, easing borrowing costs in the US and a moderation in global inflationary pressures.

On Friday, gains were led by gold miner Fresnillo, whose shares continued their remarkable run after soaring 436 per cent in 2025, buoyed by repeated record highs in gold prices.

Market experts noted that the FTSE’s breakthrough reflects a broader global trend, with stock markets across the world scaling new peaks last year. Major indices delivered double-digit gains as central banks eased monetary policies and investor confidence improved.

The historic crossing of the 10,000 level underscores renewed optimism in global equities as markets enter the new year on a strong footing.