FTSE 100 Surges to Highest Level Since March Amid Strong Corporate Earnings

The FTSE 100 index has reached its highest level since March 2nd, rising to 10,782 as investors react to key corporate earnings and the upcoming Bank of England (BoE) interest rate decision. The index has jumped by 12% from its lowest level in March this year.

AstraZeneca's strong numbers helped boost the stock, with revenue expected to hit $80 billion by 2030. Unilever also reported a 5.8% increase in sales growth in the second quarter, exceeding expectations.

Barclays' investment banking division made over £4 billion in the quarter, higher than expected, and the company increased its share buyback to £1 billion from £831 million. The BoE interest rate decision on Thursday will also impact the index, with a dovish or hawkish surprise potentially triggering a risk-off selloff.

Lloyds Bank is expected to report strong numbers, with net income forecast at £4.9 billion for the first half of the year. NatWest's total income is predicted at £4.39 billion, with a profit of £1.49 billion for the period.