The FTSE 100 index in London closed higher on Thursday, gaining 0.4% to 10,650.44. The rise came as investors anticipated potential interest rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve. Market analysts noted that recent economic data from the United States had reinforced expectations of tighter monetary policy. The London stock market saw modest gains across several sectors, with financial and consumer-related stocks leading the upward movement. Traders remained cautious, balancing optimism over potential rate increases with concerns about global economic conditions. The FTSE 100's performance reflects broader market sentiment toward central bank policies and their impact on global financial markets.