Haleon among biggest fallers as FTSE plunges 102 points on Gulf tensions
Haleon shares were among the biggest fallers at the FTSE 100 open, as the index plunged 102 points to 10,267. Renewed Gulf tensions lifted Brent crude to about $113.50 a barrel, adding pressure across consumer and financial stocks.
1. FTSE 100 Opening Decline
The FTSE 100 started trading 102 points lower at 10,267, driven primarily by a 5.3% slump in HSBC following a first-quarter pre-tax profit miss. Major banking peers Lloyds, Standard Chartered, Barclays and NatWest all fell more than 2%, setting a negative tone for the blue-chip index.
2. Haleon Among Top Losers
Haleon shares were among the largest decliners in early trading alongside InterContinental Hotels, Fresnillo and Unilever, reflecting broad-based selling pressure in the consumer goods sector. The stock’s drop highlights investor caution as market volatility spreads beyond financial names.
3. Gulf Tensions and Oil Prices
Renewed tensions in the Middle East pushed Brent crude to roughly $113.50 a barrel, sparking concerns over potential supply disruptions. Higher energy costs and geopolitical risk have amplified worries about credit losses for banks and margin pressures for companies across sectors.