FTSE 100 Ends Flat as UK Economic Data Disappoints

The FTSE 100 closed Thursday's trading session virtually unchanged, settling at 8,496.80 by 5:36 pm CET, while other major European markets were shut for May Day celebrations.

Economic Indicators Signal Trouble: Recent reports from the United Kingdom revealed a concerning contraction in the manufacturing sector during April. Adding to the economic gloom, mortgage approvals for house purchases saw a decline in March, further unsettling traders and investors alike.

Currency Markets React

On the currency front, the euro experienced a 0.51% drop against the US dollar, trading at 1.12727 by 5:35 pm CET. Similarly, the pound sterling wasn't spared, falling 0.37% against the dollar to $1.32820 shortly after.