UK Stock Market Preview for 18 December 2025: BoE Rate Decision, Inflation Surprise, FTSE 100 Movers and Global Cues
UK inflation fell to 3.2% in November, surprising markets and fueling expectations the Bank of England will cut rates at its decision today. The FTSE 100 rose Wednesday, led by banks and homebuilders, while sterling dropped and gilt yields fell. US stocks slid overnight on renewed tech sector concerns. The Bank of England’s policy announcement is due at noon.