# FTSE 100 hits new record as defence stocks surge on spending boost

The FTSE 100 index closed at an all-time high, driven by gains in defence contractors Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems. The surge reflects increased global defence spending amid geopolitical tensions. This milestone signals investor confidence in the sector's growth prospects.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### Business
- [The Guardian Biz](https://www.theguardian.com/business/live/2026/jul/30/ftse-100-record-federal-reserve-hold-kevin-warsh-iran-attacks-donald-trump-rolls-royce-shell-lloyds-bank-of-england-interest-rates-business-live-latest-updates) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 08:35:32 GMT

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/jul/30/profits-boost-defence-firms-governments-spending) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 11:46:54 GMT