UK Stock Market (LSE) Today (October 12): London’s stock market opened the new week on a positive note on Monday, October 12, 2026, as investors weighed hopes of easing energy supply pressures against fresh security concerns in the Middle East. The FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 moved higher in early trading, supported by gains in financial and other major shares.
Oil prices slipped after US President Donald Trump announced an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, although Kyiv reported further Russian attacks and Moscow had not confirmed the arrangement.
Investors also tracked developments around Riyadh airport, movements in gold and copper prices, and upcoming US inflation data for clues about the global economic outlook.
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UK Stock Market (LSE) Today (October 12): Why is the UK Stock Market Up Today?
The FTSE 100 gained 0.49% by 07:20 GMT on Monday, while Germany’s DAX rose 0.49% and France’s CAC 40 added 0.50%. FTSE 100 futures had indicated a higher opening, reflecting a broadly positive start for European equities.
The main driver was a decline in oil prices after Trump announced an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Investors weighed the possibility that a halt in attacks on energy infrastructure could reduce supply disruptions and allow more Russian fuel to reach international markets.
However, the announcement has not removed uncertainty. Ukraine reported further Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, while Russia had not confirmed the agreement. Fresh Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia also kept concerns about Middle Eastern security and energy supplies in focus.
1. Falling Oil Prices Support Market Sentiment
Oil prices declined on Monday as traders assessed the possibility of increased Russian diesel supplies and a pause in attacks on energy facilities. Brent crude fell to around $103.35 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude traded near $90.55 in early trading, according to market reports.
Lower oil prices can support shares across parts of the economy because they may reduce fuel, transport and production costs. Companies that depend heavily on energy may benefit if the decline continues, while easing inflation concerns can also improve investor sentiment.
Nevertheless, crude remained above $100 a barrel for Brent. Continued instability in the Middle East means traders still face the risk of further supply disruptions.
2. Hays Shares in Focus After Quarterly Trading Update
Recruitment company Hays attracted attention after releasing its first-quarter trading update on Monday. The company reported a 3% like-for-like decline in net fees for the quarter ended September, compared with the 4% decline analysts had expected.
Growth in the United States and Asia helped offset weaker conditions in Northern Europe. Hays reported an 8% increase in net fees in the US and a 6% rise in Asia, while permanent recruitment fees fell 7%. The company said it expected market conditions to remain stable in the near term.
The update offered investors a mixed picture of the recruitment market, with stronger performance in some regions balancing continued pressure on permanent hiring in Europe.
3. BP Faces Attention Over Riyadh Security Concerns and Gulf of Mexico Operations
BP also remained in focus after a company spokesperson said it had cancelled its attendance at the World Petroleum Council Energy Congress in Riyadh following a deadly missile attack on the Saudi capital’s international airport.
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