London's premier stock index, the FTSE 100, has achieved a historic milestone, breaking through the 10,000-point barrier for the first time ever in a powerful new year rally.
A Record-Breaking Start to 2026
As traders returned to their desks on Friday 02 January 2026, the blue-chip index powered upwards, climbing as much as 0.8% to reach an unprecedented intraday high of 10,018.5 points. This surge, which saw the index gain nearly 90 points within the first hour of trading, cemented its position at a new all-time peak.
The Drivers Behind the Surge
The landmark moment follows what has been a knockout year for the FTSE 100, which saw it rise by a staggering 21.5% over 2025 – its strongest annual performance since 2009. The index had been hovering close to the symbolic 10,000 mark for several months before finally clinching it.
The resilience and growth of the FTSE 100 have been underpinned by soaring share prices in key sectors throughout last year. Notable performers that strengthened London's top tier include:
- Precious metal miners
- Defence contractors
- Financial services firms
Investor Sentiment in a Turbulent World
Analysts suggest that investors have been drawn to the relative resilience of FTSE 100 stocks amid broader market turbulence. This flight to stability comes against a challenging backdrop of global political uncertainty and a lacklustre performance from the wider UK economy. The index's constituents have offered a perceived safe harbour, driving the sustained rally that has now culminated in this significant breakthrough.
The breach of the 10,000-point level represents more than just a numerical milestone; it is a powerful psychological boost for the London market, signalling confidence in its leading companies at the start of the new year.
