The FTSE 100 experienced its most significant decline in over a year, dropping as much as 2.1 percent—the steepest fall since March of the previous year—amid concerns that U.S. interest rate cuts may be postponed.
These fears were heightened by robust U.S. economic data, which suggested that rate cuts could be delayed.
European markets were deeply affected, with stocks tumbling during a worldwide equity sell-off. This was further exacerbated by heightened tensions following statements from top Israeli military officials, who indicated a forced response to Tehran after more than 300 missiles were launched at Israel.
The FTSE 100 declined by 1.8%. The top performer was Croda International, which decreased by 1.3%, followed by hip replacement producer Smith & Nephew, which increased by 0.4%. The largest decline was seen in Ocado, falling 5.8%, with pensions company Phoenix close behind, down 5.7%.
Similarly, the FTSE 250 also fell by 1.8%. The leading gainer was Plus500, up 2.4%, and Harbour Energy, which rose by 1.8%. Dr Martens experienced the most significant drop, plunging 29.9%, while Auction Technology fell by 15.6%.
On Wall Street, stocks were subdued following significant losses on Monday. The Chicago Board Options Exchange Volatility Index, often referred to as the “Fear Gauge,” surged by over a quarter from Friday to Monday, reaching its highest level since late October, a few weeks after Hamas’s initial attack on Israel.
The markets experienced additional pressures this afternoon as factory output in the U.S. for March met expectations, with gains in manufacturing and mining sectors reported by the Federal Reserve.
This follows unexpectedly strong retail sales data, which led to a downturn in U.S. markets on Monday. Traders were hesitant to fully factor in a rate cut before November.
