LONDON — The FTSE 100 index closed at 10,589.99 on Thursday, rising 30.41 points or 0.29% in a modest but steady rebound that lifted London’s blue-chip benchmark after a softer session the day before.

Trading volume reached approximately 648 million shares as the index swung between a low of 10,555.53 and a high of 10,645.90 during the session. The gain came amid mixed signals from global markets, with investors weighing fresh U.K. economic data, corporate earnings and ongoing geopolitical developments in the Middle East.

The FTSE 100 now sits comfortably above the psychologically important 10,500 level but remains below its all-time high of 10,934.94 hit in February 2026. Year to date, the index has posted solid gains of around 3.9%, while it has surged nearly 28% over the past 12 months, reflecting resilience despite periodic volatility.

Analysts pointed to a combination of factors supporting Thursday’s advance. A surprise uptick in U.K. GDP figures provided a welcome boost, easing some concerns about economic slowdown. Retail heavyweight Tesco and testing services firm Intertek were among the notable risers, helping to propel the index higher. Entain also advanced on positive momentum in the gaming sector.

Banking stocks offered mixed performance, with some lenders limiting broader gains while others benefited from expectations of stable interest rates. Healthcare names weighed on the index earlier in the week but showed signs of stabilization as traders digested recent results.

The broader FTSE 250, which includes more domestically focused mid-cap companies, outperformed with a 0.5% rise to 22,779.50, adding 113.91 points. The AIM All-Share index edged up 0.2% to 797.86.

Market participants remain cautious about developments between the U.S. and Iran, with peace talks providing some relief from earlier tensions that had weighed on energy and defense stocks. Oil prices hovered near recent levels, supporting shares in BP and Shell, two of the FTSE 100’s heaviest constituents.

Commodity-related stocks saw varied movement. Miners and energy firms, which often drive FTSE performance due to their significant weighting, contributed positively as metals and crude stabilized. Glencore and BAE Systems have been standout performers earlier in 2026, though some of that momentum moderated in recent sessions.

Economists noted that the U.K. economy has shown surprising strength in early 2026, with GDP figures helping to counter worries about inflation and consumer spending. However, challenges persist, including elevated energy costs affecting farmers and households, as well as uncertainty around global trade dynamics.

The FTSE 100’s dividend yield stands around 3.1%, making it attractive for income-seeking investors compared with many international peers. With a market capitalization exceeding £2.4 trillion, the index continues to represent a broad cross-section of the British economy, from multinational giants to household names.

Looking ahead, traders will watch for upcoming corporate updates and inflation data that could influence Bank of England policy expectations. Some forecasts suggest the index could test the 10,700-10,900 range if positive momentum builds, while support lies near 10,400 and the 200-day moving average.

Over the longer term, the FTSE 100 has delivered average annual returns of roughly 8% over the past decade when including dividends, though performance has lagged some technology-heavy indices like the U.S. S&P 500. Its heavy tilt toward value sectors such as financials, energy and materials has provided a buffer during periods of tech volatility.

Recent quarterly performance highlighted both winners and laggards within the index. Insurance and financial names like Beazley and Schroders posted strong gains exceeding 40% in the first three months of 2026, while homebuilders such as Barratt Redrow and travel stocks like easyJet faced steeper declines amid higher borrowing costs and shifting consumer behavior.

International investors have shown renewed interest in U.K. equities, drawn by relatively attractive valuations and a weaker pound in prior periods. Sterling’s movements against the dollar and euro will continue to play a role in multinational earnings translations.

Technical analysts observe that the index has been trading within a broader uptrend since breaking above 10,000 earlier in 2026. Short-term resistance appears near recent highs around 10,645, with further upside potentially capped until clearer catalysts emerge.

The rebound on Thursday contrasted with Wednesday’s 0.47% decline, when healthcare and consumer stocks faced pressure. That session saw the index close at 10,559.58 before recovering ground.

Broader European markets ended the day with modest moves, reflecting a wait-and-see approach among investors. The DAX in Germany and CAC 40 in France showed limited net changes as regional economic indicators came into focus.

U.S. markets, trading later in the global cycle, provided additional context with the Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 posting fractional gains amid their own corporate earnings season.

For U.K. retirees and pension funds, the FTSE 100 remains a core holding, offering exposure to stable dividend payers. However, critics have long argued that the index’s composition could benefit from greater technology and growth sector representation to match the dynamism seen elsewhere.

Capcom’s video game adaptations and other entertainment crossovers occasionally capture headlines, but Thursday’s focus stayed firmly on traditional market drivers. No major mergers or regulatory announcements moved the needle significantly during the session.

Volume and volatility remained in line with recent averages, suggesting no panic or euphoria in the market. The VIX equivalent for U.K. stocks stayed subdued, indicating calm investor sentiment.

As trading resumes Friday, attention will turn to any overnight developments in geopolitics or fresh U.K. data releases. Many strategists maintain a constructive outlook for the index through the remainder of 2026, citing undervaluation relative to earnings potential and supportive monetary policy.

The FTSE 100’s journey above 10,000 earlier this year marked a milestone, building on strong 2025 performance. While it has pulled back from February peaks, the current level around 10,590 reflects underlying confidence in British business resilience.

Investors seeking exposure can access the index through trackers, ETFs or individual blue-chip shares. With a price-to-earnings ratio that remains competitive globally, the FTSE continues to appeal to those hunting value in a high-valuation world.

In summary, Thursday’s 0.29% advance to 10,589.99 underscored the FTSE 100’s ability to find support and push higher amid a complex backdrop. Whether this marks the start of renewed momentum or a temporary pause will depend on incoming economic signals and corporate health.

The index is expected to open Friday near current levels, with analysts monitoring for any breakout above recent intraday highs.

Plans led by Bankfoot APAM on behalf of the Greater Manchester Pension Fund

Stalybridge train station will soon be surrounded by 102 new homes following planning approval.

The transport hub can expect to see a mixture of three-storey town houses and apartment blocks built on unused land on its doorstep. Approval means the area will see Harrop Street car park, industrial buildings off Water Street and the land historically occupied by Rassbottom Mill will be flattened in order to facilitate 44 townhouses and 58 apartments.

The plans tabled by Bankfoot APAM, on behalf of the Greater Manchester Pension Fund, would all be available for affordable rates (up to 80 per cent of market value).

Potential new residents in the complex would also benefit from ‘quality’ private spaces, including front and rear gardens; roof terraces; and access to the new riverside public realm. Some 56 car parking spaces, 120 cycle storage spots and tree plantings are also included in the plans.

This scheme would form part of the first residential phase of an overhaul of Stalybridge’s western edge. This section of the town has been targeted under a £11.1m scheme for new housing, improved roads, public realm upgrades, a new multi-storey car park and a pedestrian footbridge.

The idea behind this is to deliver regeneration of the town centre, attract further investment, and deliver vital new housing. The proposed new multi-level car park would replace existing surface level car parking lost when the council sold off land to facilitate the development. The footbridge across the River Tame would then help improve access to the new residential quarter of the town.

Planning papers read: “Stalybridge was once a leader in the cotton manufacturing industry of Victorian Britain, the town has been shaped around its industrial heritage, utilising its natural assets for industrial growth.

“Our proposals look to support Stalybridge’s connection to the river that once shaped the town’s growth. An ambition to create a new vibrant residential-led neighbourhood for the town; incorporating good quality public realm, high quality design and delivering uses that encourage engagement and inclusion with the local community.”

The planning panel, chaired by Coun David Mills, unanimously approved the scheme at their latest meeting in Guardsman Tony Downes House in Droylsden.

To find all the planning applications, traffic diversions, road layout changes, alcohol licence applications and more in your community, visit the Public Notices Portal.

Zambrero is looking to open outlets in larger towns and cities such as Bristol, Bath, Exeter and Plymouth

An Australian-owned food chain that sells Mexican-inspired cuisine is looking to open a host of outlets across the West of England in the next three years.

Zambrero has appointed three development agents – James Fleck, Michelle Jelfs and Sarah Preston – to spearhead the expansion across Bristol, Dorset, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall.

The trio will be responsible for franchise partner recruitment in the region, with plans to open at least nine restaurants, creating around 135 jobs, including full and part-time roles.

Development will initially focus on larger towns and cities within the region, including Bath, Bournemouth, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, Poole, Taunton and Weston-super-Mare.

Initial efforts will be made to secure locations in high footfall areas on high streets, large shopping centres – such as Cabot Circus and Cribbs Causeway in Bristol – retail parks and roadside destinations, according to the company.

The development agents will also be responsible for expansion in the West Midlands, with plans to open at least 12 restaurants via franchise partners in Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Solihull, Walsall, Leamington Spa and Worcester over the next three years.

The team will also assist with location acquisition, operational support, brand integrity, regional marketing activation and business strategy, Zambrero said.

“We’re incredibly excited to join the Zam Fam at such a pivotal stage in the brand’s growth,” said Mr Fleck. “Having worked within the hospitality industry for many years, it is clear to me that Zambrero truly stands out – from its fresh, high-quality Mexican food and modern restaurant design, to its positive culture and clear sense of purpose.”

The news comes as the Mexican restaurant group’s looks to open 100 restaurants in the UK by 2030 through strategic franchise partnerships.

Since its 2021 launch, Zambrero now has 14 restaurants across the UK, located in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Reading, Essex and Glasgow.

“We’re actively seeking passionate, committed and like-minded franchise partners to join us in expanding Zambrero across the South West,” added Mr Fleck.

“For ambitious entrepreneurs ready to lead the way in the South West, now is the time to join us on this exciting journey.”

Zambrero has grown into a global brand through its successful franchise programmes, and now has more than 350 restaurants in Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK and the US. It is also the largest Mexican restaurant franchise in Australia and Ireland.

Apple is improving its AI ecosystem with iOS 27, expected to debut at WWDC this June before rolling out alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series in September.

Early leaks suggest a refined approach to artificial intelligence. This time, the focus is less on flashy features and more on practical, everyday usability.

Visual Intelligence Gets Smarter and More Useful

As MacRumors reports, one of the biggest upgrades centers on Visual Intelligence. Apple is reportedly enhancing its ability to interpret real-world objects through the camera, starting with food packaging.

Users may soon be able to scan nutrition labels and instantly view detailed health insights, potentially integrating with Apple’s Health ecosystem for easier dietary tracking.

The feature is also expanding its recognition capabilities beyond text extraction. Printed phone numbers and addresses could soon be detected and saved directly into Contacts, streamlining a process that currently requires manual input. This builds on Apple’s existing ability to pull event details from images and add them to calendars.

Apple Wallet Moves Closer to an All-in-One Hub

Apple Wallet is set to receive a significant upgrade, enabling the creation of digital passes from physical items. By scanning tickets, membership cards, or other credentials, users can store them instantly within the app.

This feature brings Apple closer to a fully digitized wallet experience, reducing reliance on physical cards while improving convenience for everyday access.

Safari Introduces AI-Powered Organization

According to GSMArena, Safari is also gaining subtle but impactful improvements.

With Apple Intelligence, the browser will automatically generate names for tab groups based on their content. This automation helps users manage multiple tabs more efficiently, especially during research-heavy or multitasking sessions.

While not as attention-grabbing as other AI tools, this kind of background intelligence reflects Apple’s focus on improving user experience without adding complexity.

Apple Doubles Down on Practical AI Integration

Rather than chasing headline-grabbing AI features, the Cupertino giant appears committed to embedding intelligence into everyday interactions. The updates in iOS 27 emphasize convenience, automation, and seamless integration across core apps.

Ahead of WWDC, Apple knows what’s more important. For the tech titan, AI should not feel like a separate tool, but a natural extension of how users already interact with their devices.

Originally published on Tech Times

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has responded to the fresh criticism coming from US President Donald Trump regarding Australia’s lack of participation on the Strait of Hormuz.

In his response, Albanese maintained that the US had never asked for help and opted to throw Trump’s own words back at him.

Trump Criticises Australia Anew

According to a report by ABC News, Trump has yet again made his feelings about Australia clear to a reporter.

“I’m not happy with Australia because they were not there when we asked them to be there,” Trump said.

He clarified, “They were not there, having to do with Hormuz, the Hormuz Strait.”

The report notes that Trump did not exactly specify what it is exactly he wanted Australia to do regarding the Hormuz Strait.

Albanese Responds to Trump

In his response to the new criticism, Albanese insisted that the US had made no new requests regarding the ongoing war in the Middle East.

Albanese likewise reminded Trump of something that the US president previously said, according to a report by news.com.au.

“There’s been no new requests at all, and indeed, President Trump has himself said that he has got this and he has made that position clear,” Albanese pointed out.

“There’s been no change,” the Australian prime minister added.

The response makes reference to a post Trump made on the Truth Social platform, which states that “Because of the fact that we have had such Military Success, we no longer ‘need,’ or desire, the NATO Countries’ assistance — WE NEVER DID!”

Trump went on to say, “Likewise, Japan, Australia, or South Korea. In fact, speaking as President of the United States of America, by far the Most Powerful Country Anywhere in the World, WE DO NOT NEED THE HELP OF ANYONE!”