The FTSE 100 edged slightly higher on Monday, hovering near record levels, as investors reacted to geopolitical developments over the weekend. Gains were led by precious metal miners such as Endeavour and Fresnillo, supported by rising gold and silver prices as global uncertainty increased following US President Donald Trump’s move to oust Venezuela’s leader. Defence stocks also outperformed, with Babcock, Melrose and BAE Systems benefiting from heightened geopolitical tensions. Copper miners advanced as well, tracking higher copper prices driven by concerns over tighter supply and the prospect of further US tariffs. Energy stocks weighed on the index, with Shell and BP falling.
