23.04.202615:45:49UTC+00FTSE 100 Falls for 4th Session

The FTSE 100 fell again on Thursday, extending its losing streak to a fourth consecutive session as tensions between the US and Iran remained high. The lack of progress in peace talks and ongoing disputes over control of the Strait of Hormuz continued to dampen risk appetite. J Sainsbury declined more than 4% after cautioning that the conflict in the Middle East could weigh on customer behaviour and profitability, while Relx slipped over 2% even as it reiterated its guidance. The index was further dragged lower by several stocks trading ex-dividend, including Fresnillo, BAE Systems, and Legal & General. By contrast, London Stock Exchange Group advanced about 1% after posting robust first-quarter revenue growth, underpinned by increased trading activity. Sentiment was also pressured by economic data: PMI readings signalled softer business confidence and mounting inflationary pressures, although the UK budget deficit narrowed to £12.6 billion in March, its lowest level for that month since 2022.