UK equities traded higher with strong gains led by mining and commodity-linked stocks, reflecting firm metals prices and sustained investor interest in resource-heavy counters. Precious metals miner Fresnillo Plc topped the gainers’ list, rising 6.5% to 3,734 GBX, supported by optimism around gold and silver prices. Endeavour Mining Plc followed with a 4.16% gain, while diversified miner Glencore Plc advanced 3.5%, benefiting from strength across base metals.
Among large-cap stocks, Diageo Plc gained 2.73%, supported by defensive buying in consumer staples, while Rio Tinto Plc rose 2.15% amid improved sentiment in the global mining sector. Technology and defense names also saw buying interest, with The Sage Group up 2.03% and BAE Systems gaining 1.95%.
Financial and industrial stocks posted moderate advances. Standard Chartered Plc rose 1.64%, while British American Tobacco added 1.45%. Babcock International, Persimmon, and London Stock Exchange Group also ended higher, indicating broad-based participation in the rally.
Overall, the session highlighted a clear tilt toward mining, commodities, and defensive large caps, with investors positioning for continued strength in metals and selective stability plays amid global macro uncertainty.
