FTSE 100 nears record high

Boosted by consumer staples and banks

The FTSE 100 is edging closer to its record high as investors await key economic data this week, including the UK inflation print.

After a rally of more than 5% in 2023 so far, the blue-chip index entered the week just 33 points from its all-time closing high of 7,877.45 According to data from MarketWatch, the index rose 0.1% at the open on Monday, less than 1% away from record highs. The FTSE 250 mid-cap index rose 0.2%. Consumer goods like Diageo and British American Tobacco, which increased by 0.4% and 0.8%, respectively, were among the top gainers, while banks added a 0.4% boost. UK economy grows unexpectedly in November Marks & Spencer rose 0.4% in response to news of its plans to open 20 new stores th...