FTSE 100 recovers to close 0.1% higher as tech weakness and Middle East tensions weigh on sentiment

The FTSE 100 closed the session 14.11 points higher, or 0.1%, at 10,665.88, marking a modest recovery for London's benchmark index.

The gain came despite a challenging backdrop defined by fresh declines in technology shares and escalating tensions in the Middle East, which continued to cast a shadow over global risk appetite.

The index's ability to post a positive close stands in contrast to broader European and US market performance, where sentiment remained fragile.

While the FTSE 100 managed to stabilize, the technology sector faced renewed selling pressure, dragging down broader market momentum.

This divergence highlights the defensive positioning of investors, who are increasingly favoring traditional value and commodity-linked names over growth-oriented tech stocks amid uncertainty.

Geopolitical risks in the Middle East remain a key headwind, with markets closely monitoring developments that could disrupt energy supplies or trigger broader regional instability.