FTSE 100 records: defensive rush as global volatility intensifies
The FTSE 100 has punched to fresh record highs as investors flood into Britain’s biggest companies in a decisive shift towards defence, durability and scale amid rising global volatility.
The analysis from the CEO of global financial advisory giant deVere Group comes as the index touched an intraday high of 10,362 points at the open, extending its advance to more than 4% this year.
Nigel Green comments: “Investors are embracing a clear risk-on tone while simultaneously seeking shelter in assets built to withstand economic and geopolitical pressure.
“This rally is not driven by speculative enthusiasm. It’s being powered by capital moving deliberately into companies with global reach, diversified revenues and pricing power.
“In a world marked by uneven growth, currency swings and persistent uncertainty, investors are favoring strength over sensitivity.”
Mining giants are once again at the centre of the advance. Strong rallies in gold and silver prices are lifting the sector, reinforcing the FTSE’s reputation as a market anchored in hard assets and global demand.
Precious metals strength is amplifying cash flows and balance-sheet resilience at a time when protection matters as much as upside.
Alongside commodities, currency dynamics are providing an additional layer of support. The dollar’s recent strength is proving highly advantageous for the FTSE’s multinational heavyweights, many of which generate a substantial share of revenues overseas.
The defensive appeal is being reinforced by currency dynamics.
The recent strengthening of the dollar is bolstering earnings for multinational London-listed firms, turning overseas exposure into a powerful buffer against domestic economic risk.
“This combination of currency support and international revenue streams is highly compelling.
“The FTSE 100 offers exposure to global growth while providing insulation through scale, diversification and real assets. Investors are positioning for resilience, and Britain’s largest companies are built for exactly this environment,” says the deVere CEO.
He adds that the rally reflects a broader recalibration in how portfolios are being constructed in 2025.
“Volatility remains elevated across regions and asset classes.
“In response, investors are allocating to markets that can absorb shocks without sacrificing returns. The FTSE delivers that balance in a way few indices can.”
After years of being dismissed as slow-moving or outdated, the FTSE 100 is asserting itself as a defensive heavyweight.
“Its concentration in energy, materials, financials and consumer staples is proving increasingly attractive as investors prioritise earnings stability and global exposure.”
The index’s renewed momentum also underlines how defensive assets are evolving.
Protection is no longer confined to low growth or low return strategies. Investors are demanding defence with performance, and the FTSE’s advance shows that combination is firmly back in demand.
Nigel Green says the latest record should be viewed as a signal of intent from global capital.
“Investors are making purposeful choices,” he says. “The move into the FTSE reflects a preference for strength, reach and durability. This rally is rooted in fundamentals, not hope.”
He concludes that the index’s breakout marks a turning point in how UK equities are viewed internationally.
“The FTSE 100 is being re-rated. In a volatile world, markets that can protect capital while delivering growth stand out. Britain’s flagship index is doing exactly that.”