FTSE 100 Propped Up by BP and HSBC Earnings

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Written By: Faith Maina
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    Summary:
  • FTSE 100 is finding support from the better-than-expected earnings reported by BP and HBSC. More UK companies are set to release Q1'21 earnings this week.

FTSE 100 is on a consolidation pattern as investors monitor this week’s earnings reports. On Tuesday, HSBC beat analysts’ estimates of $3.35 billion by reporting $5.78 billion as its Q1’21 profits before taxes. The figure is also higher than the $3.21 billion it recorded in Q1’20. Subsequently, its shares rose by 1.7% to earn a slot in FTSE 100 best performers’ list.

BP has also recorded better-than-expected results due to optimism on global oil demand and rising commodity prices. Its net profit for 2021’s first quarter was at $2.6 billion compared to the predicted $1.4 billion and $791 million in Q1’20. Subsequently, its share price has risen by 2%. Due to the interconnection between global equities, US earnings reports and the Fed interest rate decision will also impact FTSE 100.   

Technical Outlook

FTSE 100 is on a consolidation pattern for the second consecutive session. On Tuesday, it was up by 0.12% at £6,963.2. However, it remains above the trendline highlighted in green. On a 2-hour chart, the index is above the 25 and 50-day exponential moving averages.

As long as FTSE 100 remains above the trendline, the bullish outlook remains. If more companies record better-than-expected earnings, it is likely to rise as the bulls target the psychological £7,000. On the flip side, a move below the trendline will have the support level lower at £6,920.

FTSE 100 Chart

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Written By: Faith Maina

Faith Maina is a financial analyst and economist. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and is underway in her Master’s degree course. She has an expansive understanding of global markets and their drivers. Her specialities are currencies, crypto, commodities, and equities. She lives in Nairobi, Kenya with her husband and son.

Published by
Written By: Faith Maina