The FTSE 100 Index experienced a downturn on Friday, dipping by 0.86% to close at 7,291.28. The major international bank, NatWest Group PLC, led the decline with an 11.56% drop in its shares. Other companies that contributed to the index's slide included Lloyds Banking Group (LON:LLOY) PLC, technical services firm Intertek Group (LON:ITRK) PLC, GSK PLC, and Diageo (LON:DGE) PLC.
Despite the overall downward trend, some companies managed to post gains on Friday. Diversified business services company Rentokil Initial PLC recorded the largest increase with a 3.59% rise in its shares. Other firms that saw a boost included precious metals firm Fresnillo (LON:FRES) PLC, Mondi (LON:MNDI) PLC, wholesalers company RS Group PLC, and gambling industries business Flutter Entertainment PLC.
In currency markets, the pound appreciated against the dollar but depreciated against the euro. Meanwhile, Brent crude saw a rally of 0.9%, while the yield on the 10-year gilt fell by 6.800 basis points.
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