British stocks traded higher on Tuesday as improving risk sentiment and cautious optimism around potential US-Iran talks supported global markets, despite lingering geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Track the latest on UK stocks on InvestingPro At 03:13 ET (07:13 GMT), the blue-chip index FTSE 100 rose 0.2%, while the British GBP/USD slipped 0.1% to 1.3519. The DAX gained 0.5% and the CAC 40 remained unchanged.
Investor sentiment stabilised after signs that diplomatic channels between the United States and Iran could remain open, with reports suggesting talks in Pakistan may still take place even as both sides publicly harden their stance.
Donald Trump reiterated that a deal with Iran was still achievable, while confirming that the US would maintain its naval blockade on Iranian ports until an agreement is reached.
Oil prices edged lower, with Brent crude falling around 0.3% and WTI down 0.5%, as markets weighed uncertainty over upcoming talks against ongoing supply disruptions.
While shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains constrained, efforts by Gulf producers to reroute exports via alternative terminals helped ease immediate supply concerns and supported broader risk appetite.
UK round up British Land raised its FY2027 EPS guidance to at least 30.5p after strong office leasing demand, particularly from AI-led occupiers, drove solid rental growth across its London campuses. The group reported higher FY2026 profit and rental growth ahead of guidance, with occupancy near capacity and portfolio values and ERV continuing to rise.
Capital Limited posted record Q1 revenue, driven by growth across mining, drilling, and laboratory segments, while maintaining full-year guidance. Despite slightly lower rig utilisation, contract wins and expanding lab capacity supported strong operational momentum amid manageable geopolitical risks.
Associated British Foods plans to demerge its Primark retail arm from its food business, with both entities to be separately listed in London. The move follows a strategic review, as the group also reported a decline in interim pretax profit year-on-year.
