London Stocks Edge Lower Amid U.S. Jobs Report Caution

London stocks dipped on Friday as investor caution ahead of a vital U.S. jobs report weighed on sentiment, despite gains from precious metal miners due to rising commodity prices. The blue-chip FTSE 100 index was down 0.4%, and the mid-cap FTSE 250 index dropped 1.2%.

London stocks dipped on Friday, reflecting broader market declines as investors exercised caution ahead of a crucial U.S. jobs report.

The blue-chip FTSE 100 index fell by 0.4%, following its worst performance in over three months on Thursday. The mid-cap FTSE 250 index also dropped by 1.2% as of 0712 GMT. Despite the drop, both indexes are poised for weekly gains buoyed by positive corporate earnings.

Investor sentiment took a hit globally after weak U.S. manufacturing data on Thursday stoked fears of an economic slowdown. In London, investment banking and brokerage stocks fell by 1.8% after a 1.1% drop in the previous session. Personal goods brands like Burberry slipped over 1% following a 41% decline in first-half profits reported by Italian peer Salvator Ferragamo. However, precious metal miners gained 0.7% as gold prices firmed on safe-haven demand and potential U.S. rate cuts in September.

Banks extended their losses with a 0.8% decline, continuing the trend from Thursday when the sector recorded its worst day since February 2022. This decline was triggered by the Bank of England's quarter-point rate cut and Societe Generale lowering its retail net interest income guidance. Notably, the BoE's rate cut was its first since 2020 and came with a cautious outlook on further reductions.

In contrast, IAG Group surged by 3.85% to lead the FTSE 100 after the British Airways owner scrapped its takeover bid for Spain's Air Europa, citing regulatory concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)