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Britain's key stock indices continued their upward momentum on Friday, poised to end the week on a positive note, driven by a trade truce between the U.S. and China. The leading stock index was set to gain over 1% for the week if the upward trend held. Meanwhile, the midcap index advanced 0.5%, marking its sixth consecutive weekly gain and its seventh straight day of increases. This week, investors welcomed the easing of U.S.-China trade tensions, which significantly reduced fears of a global recession. This optimism was further supported by mild economic data and generally strong corporate earnings, despite some lingering caution in the market. On Friday, the healthcare sector led the charge, rising 1.5%. In contrast, precious metal mining stocks declined as gold prices dropped, influenced by a stronger dollar and waning trade war concerns. Looking ahead, market participants are focusing on consumer inflation data due next week, which could shape the Bank of England's monetary policy decisions. As of Friday, traders estimated an 88% chance that the central bank will maintain current interest rates at its June meeting.

Single Stock Stories & Broker Updates:

• Shares of Workspace Group fell 11% to 404p, marking the largest one-day percentage drop since March 2020. The company anticipates a trading profit hit of about £7 million ($9.31 million) for the year ending March 2026 due to a strategic plan initiated this year. They also expect low rent roll, large unit vacancies, and increased macro and refinancing costs. Analysts predict trading profits of £66 million to £72 million. WKP is down approximately 18% YTD.

• British commercial property firm Land Securities Group shares fell 2.2% to 590.5p, making it the top percentage loser on the FTSE 100, which is up 0.28%. The company's property valuations were slightly below expectations as it shifts away from office properties. FY25 EPRA net tangible assets were reported at 874p/share, below the 890p/share expected by analysts. The company posted a pretax profit of £393 million, compared to a £341 million loss last year. Among 19 analysts, 9 rated it "buy" or higher and 10 "hold," with a median price target of 666.5p. The stock is up nearly 3.3% year-to-date as of the last close.

• Craneware Plc shares rise 13.17% to 2,322p amid Bain Capital's potential offer, although no approach has been made yet. Bain has until June 13 to decide. Overall, the stock is up ~10.05%.

Technical & Trade View

FTSE Bias: Bullish Above Bearish below 8700

• Primary support 8500
• Below 8500 opens 8250
• Primary objective 8900
• Daily VWAP Bullish
• Weekly VWAP Bullish

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