It has finally happened. In trading on Tuesday afternoon, the UK’s FTSE 100 index finally closed in on an all-time high. It hit 8,015 points, itching above the previous record closing level of 8,014 set in February 2023 – even if it was still a whisker below the intra-day trading record of 8,043, also from February last year.
With stock markets rising around the world, at some point this week or perhaps next, the FTSE 100 will be setting fresh records daily. We may even be treated to one of those self-congratulatory tweets the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, specialises in. The trouble is, there is nothing to celebrate. In reality, the FTSE has been a dismal disappointment. Nothing will change that soon.
With inflation, record highs are inevitable. They are nothing to celebrate
Finally punching its way through the 8,000 barrier is a milestone of sorts. And yet, measured over a longer time period, it is barely an achievement.
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