FTSE 100 Seen Rising as Dollar Weakens

London stocks expected to open higher after mixed Wall Street trading and softer-than-expected US economic data

Feb. 11, 2026 at 1:15am

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Stocks in London are set to open higher on Wednesday, after mixed trading on Wall Street and a raft of softer-than-expected US economic data. IG says futures indicate the FTSE 100 to open up 23.0 points, 0.2% at 10,376.84 on Wednesday. The index of London large-caps closed down 0.3% at 10,353.84 on Tuesday.

Why it matters

The FTSE 100's performance is closely watched as an indicator of the overall health of the UK economy. A rise in the index, driven by a weakening US dollar, suggests improved investor sentiment and potential opportunities for British businesses and consumers.

The details

The US dollar weakened against major currencies like the pound and euro, which can boost the FTSE 100 as it makes British exports more affordable for overseas buyers. Recent US economic data, including flat retail sales and lower-than-expected import/export price increases, also contributed to the expected FTSE 100 rise.

  • The FTSE 100 closed down 0.3% at 10,353.84 on Tuesday.
  • Futures indicate the FTSE 100 will open up 23.0 points, 0.2% at 10,376.84 on Wednesday.

The players

IG

A financial services company that provides market analysis and trading platforms.

Alphabet

The parent company of Google, which plans to issue 100-year bonds to fund its artificial intelligence investments.

Howard Lutnick

The US Commerce Secretary who denied having regular interactions with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

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What they’re saying

“Over a 14 year period, I did not have any relationship with him. I barely had anything to do with that person,”

— Howard Lutnick, US Commerce Secretary

What’s next

The focus on Wednesday will be on the US unemployment rate (nonfarm payrolls) and the US monthly budget statement, which could further impact the FTSE 100's performance.

The takeaway

The expected rise in the FTSE 100, driven by a weakening US dollar and softer-than-expected US economic data, suggests improved investor sentiment and potential opportunities for British businesses and consumers, though the index's performance will continue to be influenced by key US economic indicators.