FX.co ★ UK Stocks End Slightly Down

The FTSE 100 experienced a slight dip, closing at 8,638 on Monday as investors continued to track developments on US tariffs and assessed a somewhat mixed UK PMI report. According to a new OMI survey, output growth in the UK's private sector reached a six-month peak in March, driven by a resurgence in the services sector, which offset a sluggish performance in manufacturing. Within sectors, healthcare and consumer stocks, namely Haleon, AstraZeneca, GSK, Hikma, JD Sports, and Marks & Spencer, were the primary decliners. Conversely, investment trusts with major stakes in US large-cap stocks, such as Pershing Square Holdings, Polar Capital Technology Trust PLC, and Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC, emerged as the top gainers. Additionally, mining companies, including Antofagasta and Anglo American, saw an uptick following JPMorgan's decision to upgrade the sector to 'overweight' for the first time in over a year.