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FTSE 100 Declines as European Markets Mixed; GSK, HBR Fall

Sam Boughedda trader
Updated 22 Dec 2025

The FTSE 100 fell 0.5% on Monday, underperforming mixed moves across European markets. Germany’s DAX edged 0.1% higher, while France’s CAC 40 declined 0.3%.

The pan-European STOXX 600 was down 0.1%, reflecting a cautious tone at the start of the week.

Macro data highlighted a lack of momentum in the UK economy heading into 2026. Gross domestic product rose just 0.1% in the third quarter, following a downwardly revised expansion of 0.2% in the April-to-June period. The subdued growth backdrop weighed on sentiment.

Meanwhile, GSK shares slipped after the pharmaceutical group announced on Friday that it had agreed a deal to lower the cost of prescription medicines for American patients, including products in its respiratory portfolio.

In the FTSE 250, Harbour Energy tumbled after unveiling a $3.2 billion acquisition of LLOG Exploration Company, adding pressure to the mid-cap index.

Within the FTSE 100, gains were led by miners and commodities-linked names. Endeavour Mining rose 2.5%, Fresnillo added 2.2%, and Glencore climbed 1.9%.

On the downside, DCC was the biggest faller, sliding 2.5%. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners dropped 2%, while Imperial Brands fell 1.9%.

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Sam is a trader and lead stock market writer at AskTraders. After starting his career in the forex market, Sam now focuses on stocks, specifically consumer staples. 
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