London's Blue-Chip Index Charges Toward Historic Milestone
The FTSE 100 is marching confidently toward the psychologically significant 10,000 point barrier after securing its second consecutive record close. On Wednesday 12 November 2025, the blue-chip index finished at 9,899.60p following a robust 1.15 per cent gain, leaving it within touching distance of the landmark level that has captivated City traders.
Global Markets Divergge as AI Fears Rattle Wall Street
While London's premier index enjoyed a strong performance, Wall Street faced significant headwinds from growing concerns about the sustainability of the artificial intelligence boom. The S&P 500 opened 0.3 per cent lower, while the technology-heavy Nasdaq suffered a more substantial 0.6 per cent decline at the start of trading.
The downward pressure followed dramatic news that Japanese investment giant SoftBank had sold its entire $5 billion stake in Nvidia, sending the chipmaker's shares tumbling by two per cent at opening. This development represents the latest challenge to the AI sector after last week saw approximately £750 billion wiped from AI-related companies worldwide.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average proved the exception among US indices, managing a modest 0.2 per cent gain despite the broader market unease.
Traditional Strengths Shield FTSE From Tech Turbulence
Britain's flagship index has demonstrated remarkable resilience against the global AI sell-off, largely due to its composition heavily weighted toward traditional sectors including oil and healthcare. These established industries have provided a stabilizing influence, allowing the FTSE 100 to avoid the severe losses experienced by more technology-focused markets.
The positive momentum also received support from developments in Washington, where the record-breaking US government shutdown exceeding 40 days appeared to be nearing resolution. This political breakthrough helped buoy investor confidence on both sides of the Atlantic.
However, analysts warn that private credit concerns continue to pose a significant threat to financial giants listed on London's premier exchange. The market remains on high alert after the FTSE 100 endured its worst week since former President Donald Trump's 'Liberation Day' tariff offensive, triggered by banking sector sell-offs last month amid fears reminiscent of the 2008 financial crisis.
Investors now navigate a delicate balancing act between the inflating AI bubble and mounting private credit anxieties, with global markets maintaining a state of heightened vigilance.
