FX.co ★ UK Stocks End Slightly Down

The FTSE 100 finished with a decline of approximately 0.3% at 8,666 on Thursday, mirroring trends observed among other regional indices. This followed growing concerns over newly announced tariffs by the US President, Donald Trump. Announced on Wednesday, the President imposed a 25% tariff on all automobile imports starting next week, with tariffs on auto parts set to commence by May 3, 2025. Further, President Trump confirmed reciprocal tariffs would begin on April 2, describing them as "very lenient," while also noting impending tariffs on pharmaceuticals and lumber. Concurrently, UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves, speaking in Cardiff after the spring statement, characterized the ongoing US-UK trade negotiations as a "delicate moment," while assuring that the UK does not intend to respond with retaliatory measures. In corporate affairs, FTSE 250 constituent Aston Martin fell sharply, losing over 6%, following the tariff announcement. Within the FTSE 100, shares of M&G, Schroders, Taylor Wimpey, and Melrose Industries diminished in value as they marked their ex-dividend dates today. Conversely, fashion retailer Next experienced a notable increase, surging 10.5% after positively revising its guidance post-annual results.