FTSE 100 closes below the 7,600 level as SVB collapse permeates European markets

The FTSE 100 index has closed 2.6% lower at 7,549 points, below the 7,600 level, due to concerns over the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. The US banking system is experiencing tough times, and the UK financial sector and banking system will likely follow in its footsteps. Today’s article will explore the reasons behind the FTSE 100’s drop and what it could mean for investors.

Worries over the collapse of SVB and Signature Bank

The collapse of SVB and Signature Bank has raised many questions about the overall health of the US banking system. While US regulators have guaranteed all deposits at the failed banks, the decision has only added a sharp lurch to risk aversion in the broader global banking sector. Moreover, concerns about the broader economic effects have also emerged, as the experiences of lenders may impact their behavior in the coming weeks and months.

European markets suffer

The stress on European banks has caused market volatility, which has led to the FTSE 100’s sharp drop. Traders on this side of the Atlantic are wary of the possible impact of the ongoing turmoil on European banks, which has made them sell off shares. Moreover, tomorrow’s CPI and Thursday’s ECB decision promise to make the picture even murkier, increasing the risk of further falls.

Related facts

• The Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 in the US made gains amid hopes that the crisis could keep the Federal Reserve’s hands-on interest rate hikes.
• HSBC has bought Silicon Valley Bank’s UK arm for £1, giving it access to SVB’s extensive network of technology start-ups. HSBC stated that the acquisition is a strategic move aimed at bringing in new business while bolstering its existing capabilities.
• Ongoing troubles in the US banking system are complex and not fully understood. There is a possibility that a systemic crisis may occur if global central banks and regulators do not take the appropriate steps.

Key takeaway

The collapse of SVB and Signature Bank, coupled with the expected CPI and ECB decision, has made the FTSE 100’s drop likely to continue. While the situation is not a crisis yet, it may affect the behavior of lenders in the coming weeks and months. As such, it is necessary to be cautious when trading on European markets.

Conclusion

The FTSE 100 has closed 2.6% lower at 7,549 points, below the 7,600 level, due to worries over the broader economic impact of the collapse of SVB and Signature Bank on the global banking sector. The US banking system is experiencing severe issues, and the UK financial sector and banking system will likely follow suit. However, given the expected CPI and ECB decision, it is advisable to exercise caution when investing, as the market will likely remain volatile soon.