FTSE 100 Up Marginally At Noon; Miners Move Higher

The FTSE 100 traded modestly higher at midday, supported by strength in mining shares, while broader sentiment stayed cautious due to Middle East conflict risks and rising crude prices. Brent crude rose 1.1% to $89.49 a barrel as renewed fighting in Lebanon and tanker attacks in the Strait of Hormuz lifted energy-market concerns. The index was up 14.07 points, or 0.13%, at 10,764.18. Miners outperformed after the U.S. dollar weakened on softer U.S. retail sales and consumer sentiment data. Individual gainers included Fresnillo, Endeavour Mining, Anglo American, Antofagasta, Rio Tinto and Glencore. AstraZeneca also gained after positive SAFFRON Phase III trial results. Overall, the article points to a mildly supportive backdrop for UK equities, but geopolitical uncertainty and higher oil prices limited risk appetite.