The FTSE 100 index experienced a modest increase of 0.37% today, continuing its upward trend with a notable rise of 1.5% over the past five days and an impressive 6.88% over the last month. This positive momentum reflects a broader market sentiment, as 256 stocks advanced compared to 170 that declined, resulting in an overall advance-decline ratio of 1.51x. In the large-cap segment, London Stock Exchange Group plc emerged as the top performer with a return of 9.06%, while Fresnillo Plc lagged behind with a decline of 5.13%. Mid-cap stocks saw Howden Joinery Group Plc leading with a return of 10.75%, contrasting with Hikma Pharmaceuticals Plc, which faced a significant drop of 16.89%. Among small-cap stocks, Spectra Systems Corp. recorded a gain of 9.09%, while Genus Plc fell by 10.41%. The advance-decline ratios varied across market caps, with large-cap stocks showing a strong ratio of 2.17x, mid-caps at 1.75x, and small-caps at 1.53x, indicating a generally favorable trading environment.