FTSE 100 achieves longest unbroken run since inception in 1984 – how significant is this record?

Longest FTSE 100 consecutive daily gains since 1984

The FTSE 100 has made history, recording 15 consecutive days of gains—its longest winning streak since its inception in 1984.

The index closed at 8,596.35 points, marking a 1.17% rise on the final day of the streak.

This remarkable run comes amid the potential of easing trade tensions between the U.S. and China, with signs that tariff negotiations may commence.

Investors have responded positively, driving up stock prices across multiple sectors. Financial stocks, including Barclays and HSBC, have surged following strong earnings reports, while industrial and mining stocks – such as Rolls-Royce and Rio Tinto – have rebounded.

Despite the impressive streak, analysts caution that uncertainty remains. The FTSE 100 has yet to reclaim its record high from March 2025, and concerns over global trade policies could limit further gains.

However, the index has still outperformed expectations, rising 4.9% over six months and 5.1% over the past year.

FTSE 100 one-month chart

FTSE 100 one-month chart

As investors celebrate this milestone, the question remains: can the FTSE 100 sustain its momentum, or is a market correction on the horizon?

Either way, this winning streak has cemented its place in financial history.

Rolls-Royce shares jump 15% on impressive earnings report

Rolls-Royce accouts

Rolls-Royce’s share price surged by 15% following the announcement of its impressive full-year earnings and positive outlook.

The British aerospace giant reported a 57% increase in operating profit, reaching £2.46 billion for 2024. This exceeded analyst expectations and was driven by strong performance in its jet engine and power systems divisions.

In addition to the robust earnings, Rolls-Royce reinstated its dividend, proposing a 6 pence per share payout, and launched a £1 billion share buyback program.

The company also upgraded its mid-term guidance, projecting operating profit to rise to between £3.6 billion and £3.9 billion.

The market reacted positively to these developments, with Rolls-Royce’s stock hitting a new 52-week high.

Rolls-Royce one-year chart (as of 28th February 2025 09:50 GMT)

Rolls-Royce one-year chart (as of 28th February 2025 09:50 GMT)

The company’s CFO, Helen McCabe, highlighted the significant progress made in their multi-year transformation journey, emphasising the expanding earnings potential and improving balance sheet.

Rolls-Royce shares surge to all-time high as dividend is reinstated

Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce shares surged over 11% to reach a record high on Thursday 1st August 2024 following the reinstatement of its dividend and an increase in its profit outlook, buoyed by robust first-half results

The British aerospace and defence giant announced an underlying profit of £1.1 billion for the first half of the year and projected this to grow to between £2.1 billion and £2.3 billion for the full year of 2024.

This projection surpasses the previous forecast of £1.7 billion to £2.0 billion made in its full-year results for 2023 and exceeds market expectations.

Rolls-Royce one-year share price as of: 1st August 2024 (12pm)

Rolls-Royce one year share price as of: 1st August 2024 (12pm)