Global Uncertainties Impact London's FTSE 100 Performance

London's FTSE 100 fell from record highs due to disappointing earnings from Rio Tinto and geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Market reactions included declines in Rio Tinto stocks and a surge in London Stock Exchange Group. Centrica faced significant losses amid profit warnings.

The FTSE 100 in London experienced a downturn on Thursday, declining from its recently attained record highs. This drop was primarily due to the global mining giant Rio Tinto reporting annual earnings that failed to meet expectations, which subsequently impacted investor sentiment.

The index saw a 0.7% fall by 1101 GMT after achieving a record high for two consecutive sessions earlier. Rio Tinto shares plummeted by 4.4%, attributed to flat annual earnings and declining prices in its primary iron ore sector, although its copper division showed robust performance.

Investor caution was evident as tensions escalated between the U.S. and Iran, notwithstanding progress in talks over Tehran's nuclear program. Meanwhile, on the domestic front, Centrica suffered a 5.3% decline as it warned of potential profit misses and ceased its share buyback program following a dramatic drop in annual profits.

(With inputs from agencies.)