London’s FTSE 100 closed at a record high, as heavyweight healthcare stocks led a broad-based rally after Britain’s AstraZeneca announced a strategic collaboration. The internationally-focused FTSE 100 rose 1.4%, also lifted by a weaker pound that increases export revenue for exporters.
US-based spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs began 2026 on a strong note, posting a combined net inflow of around $646 million on the first trading day, despite mixed sentiment across the broader crypto market.
Tesla ceded its crown as the world’s top electric vehicle maker to China’s BYD, after annual sales fell for a second year, hit by rising competition, the expiry of U.S. tax credits and brand backlash. With global EV sales rising 28% last year, BYD outsold Tesla for the first time on an annual basis.
The U.S. dollar began 2026 stronger on Friday, snapping last year’s slump against most currencies as investors look ahead to a critical week of economic data that could steer Federal Reserve policy and global markets.
The pound held steady against both the dollar and the euro in thin holiday trading with little in the way of scheduled events that could move the currency until the new year.
Nvidia has purchased Intel shares worth $5 billion, the American semiconductor firm said in a filing, carrying out a transaction announced in September. The leading AI chip designer said in September it would pay $23.28 per share for Intel common stock.
