UK Shares Tumble Amid Global Growth Concerns and Trade Tensions

UK stocks fell on Monday due to fears of global economic slowdown and US tariff uncertainties. The FTSE 100 dropped 0.5%, with heavier losses in the financial and pharmaceutical sectors. Geopolitical issues impacted companies like Clarkson and Assura, while Deliveroo exited Hong Kong amid a sluggish UK jobs market.

British shares tumbled on Monday as global growth concerns and the unpredictability surrounding U.S. tariffs continued to weigh heavily on investors' minds. The blue-chip FTSE 100 index fell by 0.5% at 1050 GMT, with losses persisting for a fifth consecutive session if the trend continues.

Investor sentiment was rattled by escalating global trade tensions, with U.S. President Donald Trump's comments about potential recession risks due to tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China over fentanyl adding to the unease. Susannah Streeter from Hargreaves Lansdown remarked on the underlying market anxiety as consumer confidence waned and trade complexities increased.

Major bank and pharmaceutical stocks saw declines of 2.2% and 1.4%, respectively, contributing to sectoral decreases. Meanwhile, Clarkson slid 17.5% amid geopolitical uncertainties, overshadowing gains by Assura and Deliveroo. The UK's job market showed signs of cooling in February, reflecting broader economic anxieties.

(With inputs from agencies.)