The FTSE 100 held steady at 10,620 on Friday, nearing its highest level since early March and on track for a third consecutive week of gains, as investors remained cautiously optimistic ahead of US-Iran negotiations this weekend, though tensions persisted. President Trump struck a mixed tone, expressing optimism about a potential deal with Iran but later warning Tehran over its decision to impose fees on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry accused Iran and its proxies of conducting new drone attacks, while the critical waterway remained largely blocked. In corporate news, student accommodation provider Unite Group gained 0.7% after reaffirming its guidance for occupancy and rental growth, though it noted results would likely fall at the lower end of expectations for the 2026/27 academic year. Conversely, catering giant Compass Group saw its shares decline 1.6% following a weak update from French competitor Sodexo.
