FTSE down 2.6% as commodities fall
The FTSE 100 index today fell by more than 2.6% after weakness in the commodities market with the price of oil coming under significant pressure. The market is down just over 4% in June alone which has wiped out the rise over the last three months. While only a few days ago the price of oil was climbing higher and commodities were doing well, just 24 hours in the international investment market seems to be a long time!
Many investors are also running scared of the growing unrest in Iran which has threatened to clamp down on illegal demonstrations which are happening in the country. The potential for further conflict in the region continues to grow on a daily basis although exactly what action is open to the US and UK authorities remains to be seen. In a rather bizarre quirk of fate, as the UK market heads downwards the UK economy seems to be recovering with a number of reports casting a more positive light on the situation.
Interestingly, we have seen a number of mergers and takeovers announced over the last few weeks which many people believe is one sign that the market may be bottoming out. However, if you are looking to invest in the stock market you need to take professional advice before doing so.
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