FTSE 100 Flat Amid US Inflation Anxiety

The FTSE 100 index remained largely flat on August 12, as investors took a cautious approach ahead of key US inflation data. The blue-chip index edged up 0.04% to 10,848.75 points by 10:14 GMT.

The mid-cap FTSE 250 outperformed, gaining 0.5% and moving towards a record closing level. Balfour Beatty was among the standout stocks after raising its annual forecast, sending its shares to a record high.

Investors are closely watching US Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, which could affect expectations for the Federal Reserve's interest-rate path. A stronger-than-expected inflation reading could reduce expectations for rate cuts, while softer inflation could support expectations for easier monetary policy.