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FTSE 100 up 0.3, FTSE 250 up 0.4

Dec 31 Reuters London39;s FTSE 100 edged higher on the last trading day of 2024, as it looked set to lock in gains for a fourth straight year and its best since 2021.

The bluechip FTSE 100 was up 0.3, but was set for its only negative quarter in six, and its worst month since Oct 2023. The midcap FTSE 250 gained 0.4, although it was on track for its worst quarter in nine.

Trading volumes are expected to be thin on New Year39;s Eve as markets close early. They will be shut for the New Year holiday on Wednesday.

Most major FTSE 350 sectors traded higher, with precious metal miners bouncing back from their lowest levels in three months hit in the previous session. Energy stocks were the biggest boosts, with a 1.2 rise.

Aerospace and defence stocks fell 0.3. However, the sector is poised to outperform its peers this year, while personal goods are set to become the worst performers of 2024.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer39;s win in the July election and the start of the Bank of England39;s monetary policy easing cycle in August have put the FTSE 100 on track for its fourth straight year of gains and the FTSE 250 for its second.

Heading into the new year, investors will keep an eye on Donald Trump39;s returns to the White House, the impact of UK Finance Minister Rachel Reeves39; October budget and the monetary policies of central banks…