A robust session means the FTSE 100 index is on course to post a slender gain across the first half of the year.
The 2023 rise of 1% is in contrast with Wall Street, with the Nasdaq Composite up 30% and the S&P 500 index 15% higher.
Today’s final session of the quarter has been boosted by yesterday’s upward revision to US GDP, meaning Brent Crude is poised for its first monthly increase this year.
