UK Stocks Surge Amid U.S.-Iran Deal Hopes

UK stock markets experienced a notable surge on Wednesday, with main indexes jumping by more than 2%. This rally was fueled by anticipation of a possible agreement between the United States and Iran, aimed at resolving a prolonged conflict that has driven energy prices higher.

The blue-chip FTSE 100 index rose by 2.4% by mid-morning, while the midcap FTSE 250 advanced 2.6%, reaching its highest level in two weeks. Reports of a potential U.S.-Iran deal led to an 8% slump in oil prices and a broad rally in global stocks, except for the UK's energy subsector, which experienced a decline.

The market movement prompted traders to reduce their interest rate increase bets from the Bank of England, projecting a total of 50 basis points of increases by the end of 2026, down from over 60 bps anticipated previously. Meanwhile, attention shifted to key local elections, where Labour Party's performance, amid scandals, could impact Prime Minister Keir Starmer's position.

(With inputs from agencies.)